Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedure for Ceiling Fans, 69544-69574 [2021-25416]
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 232 / Tuesday, December 7, 2021 / Proposed Rules
DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
10 CFR Parts 429 and 430
[EERE–2013–BT–TP–0050]
RIN 1904–AD88
Energy Conservation Program: Test
Procedure for Ceiling Fans
Office of Energy Efficiency and
Renewable Energy, Department of
Energy.
ACTION: Supplemental notice of
proposed rulemaking and request for
comment.
AGENCY:
The U.S. Department of
Energy (‘‘DOE’’) proposes to amend the
test procedures for ceiling fans. DOE
initially presented proposed
amendments in a notice of proposed
rulemaking (‘‘NOPR’’) published on
September 30, 2019. DOE is publishing
this supplemental notice of proposed
rulemaking (‘‘SNOPR’’) to present
modifications to certain proposals
presented in the NOPR, and to propose
additional amendments. In this SNOPR,
DOE proposes to include a definition for
‘‘circulating air’’ for the purpose of the
ceiling fan definition, include ceiling
fans greater than 24 feet in the scope,
include certain belt-driven ceiling fans
within scope, include a standby metric
for large-diameter ceiling fans, amend
the low speed definition, permit an
alternate set-up to collect air velocity
test data, amend certain set-up and
operation specifications, amend the
blade thickness measurement
requirement, and update productspecific rounding and enforcement
provisions. DOE is seeking comment
from interested parties on the proposal.
DATES: DOE will accept comments, data,
and information regarding this proposal
no later than February 7, 2022. See
section V, ‘‘Public Participation,’’ for
details. DOE will hold a webinar on
Tuesday, January 11, 2022, from 12:30
p.m. to 3:30 p.m. E.S.T. See section V,
‘‘Public Participation,’’ for webinar
registration information, participant
instructions, and information about the
capabilities available to webinar
participants. If no participants register
for the webinar, it will be cancelled.
ADDRESSES: Interested persons are
encouraged to submit comments using
the Federal eRulemaking Portal at
www.regulations.gov. Follow the
instructions for submitting comments.
Alternatively, interested persons may
submit comments, identified by docket
number EERE–2013–BT–TP–0050, by
any of the following methods:
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SUMMARY:
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1. Federal eRulemaking Portal:
www.regulations.gov. Follow the
instructions for submitting comments.
2. Email: CF2013TP0050@ee.doe.gov.
Include the docket number EERE–2013–
BT–TP–0050 or regulatory information
number (‘‘RIN’’) 1904–AD88 in the
subject line of the message.
No telefacsimilies (‘‘faxes’’) will be
accepted. For detailed instructions on
submitting comments and additional
information on this process, see section
V of this document.
Although DOE has routinely accepted
public comment submissions through a
variety of mechanisms, including the
Federal eRulemaking Portal, email,
postal mail, or hand delivery/courier,
the Department has found it necessary
to make temporary modifications to the
comment submission process in light of
the ongoing Covid–19 pandemic. DOE is
currently suspending receipt of public
comments via postal mail and hand
delivery/courier. If a commenter finds
that this change poses an undue
hardship, please contact Appliance
Standards Program staff at (202) 586–
1445 to discuss the need for alternative
arrangements. Once the Covid–19
pandemic health emergency is resolved,
DOE anticipates resuming all of its
regular options for public comment
submission, including postal mail and
hand delivery/courier.
Docket: The docket, which includes
Federal Register notices, webinar
attendee lists and transcripts (if a
webinar is held), comments, and other
supporting documents/materials, is
available for review at
www.regulations.gov. All documents in
the docket are listed in the
www.regulations.gov index. However,
some documents listed in the index,
such as those containing information
that is exempt from public disclosure,
may not be publicly available.
The docket web page can be found at
regulations.gov/docket/EERE-2013-BTTP-0050. The docket web page contains
instructions on how to access all
documents, including public comments,
in the docket. See section V for
information on how to submit
comments through
www.regulations.gov.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Mr. Jeremy Dommu, U.S. Department of
Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency
and Renewable Energy, Building
Technologies Office, EE–2J, 1000
Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20585–0121.
Telephone: (202) 586–9870. Email
ApplianceStandardsQuestions@
ee.doe.gov.
Ms. Amelia Whiting, U.S. Department of
Energy, Office of the General Counsel,
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GC–33, 1000 Independence Avenue
SW, Washington, DC 20585–0121.
Telephone: (202) 586–9870. Email:
ApplianceStandardsQuestions@
ee.doe.gov.
For further information on how to
submit a comment, review other public
comments and the docket, or participate
in a public meeting (if one is held),
contact the Appliance and Equipment
Standards Program staff at (202) 287–
1445 or by email:
ApplianceStandardsQuestions@
ee.doe.gov.
DOE has submitted the collection of
information contained in the proposed
rule to OMB for review under the
Paperwork Reduction Act, as amended.
(44 U.S.C. 3507d)) Comments on the
information collection proposal shall be
directed to the Office of Information and
Regulatory Affairs, Office of
Management and Budget, Attention:
Sofie Miller, OIRA Desk Officer by
email: sofie.e.miller@omb.eop.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Table of Contents
I. Authority and Background
A. Authority
B. Background
II. Synopsis of the Notice of Proposed
Rulemaking
III. Discussion
A. Scope of Ceiling Fan Definition
B. Scope of Test Procedure for LargeDiameter Ceiling Fans
C. Belt-Driven Ceiling Fans
D. Standby Power Metric for LargeDiameter Ceiling Fans
E. Low-Speed Definition
F. Sensor Arm Setups
G. Air Velocity Sensor Mounting Angle
H. Instructions To Measure Blade
Thickness
I. Specifications for Ceiling Fans With
Accessories
J. Product Specific Rounding and
Enforcement Provisions
1. Airflow (CFM) at High Speed Rounding
2. Blade Edge Thickness Rounding and
Tolerance
3. Blade RPM Tolerance
4. Represented Values Within Product
Class Definitions
K. Test Procedure Costs, Harmonization,
and Other Topics
1. Test Procedure Costs and Impact
2. Harmonization With Industry Standards
L. Compliance Date and Waivers
IV. Procedural Issues and Regulatory Review
A. Review Under Executive Order 12866
B. Review Under the Regulatory Flexibility
Act
1. Description of Reasons Why Action Is
Being Considered
2. Objective of, and Legal Basis for, Rule
3. Description and Estimate of Small
Entities Regulated
4. Description and Estimate of Compliance
Requirements
5. Duplication, Overlap, and Conflict With
Other Rules and Regulations
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6. Significant Alternatives to the Rule
C. Review Under the Paperwork Reduction
Act of 1995
D. Review Under the National
Environmental Policy Act of 1969
E. Review Under Executive Order 13132
F. Review Under Executive Order 12988
G. Review Under the Unfunded Mandates
Reform Act of 1995
H. Review Under the Treasury and General
Government Appropriations Act, 1999
I. Review Under Treasury and General
Government Appropriations Act, 2001
J. Review Under Executive Order 12630
K. Review Under Executive Order 13211
L. Review Under Section 32 of the Federal
Energy Administration Act of 1974
M. Description of Materials Incorporated
by Reference
V. Public Participation
A. Participation in the Webinar
B. Submission of Comments
C. Issues on Which DOE Seeks Comment
VI. Approval of the Office of the Secretary
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I. Authority and Background
DOE is authorized to establish and
amend energy conservation standards
and test procedures for ceiling fans. (42
U.S.C. 6293(b)(16)(A)(i) and (B), and 42
U.S.C. 6295(ff)) DOE’s energy
conservation standards and test
procedures for ceiling fans are currently
prescribed at title 10 of the Code of
Federal Regulations (‘‘CFR’’), part 430
section 32(s)(1) and (2), 10 CFR part 430
section 23(w), and 10 CFR part 430
subpart B appendix U (‘‘Appendix U’’).
The following sections discuss DOE’s
authority to establish test procedures for
ceiling fans and relevant background
information regarding DOE’s
consideration of test procedures for this
product.
A. Authority
The Energy Policy and Conservation
Act, as amended (‘‘EPCA’’),1 authorizes
DOE to regulate the energy efficiency of
a number of consumer products and
certain industrial equipment. (42 U.S.C.
6291–6317) Title III, Part B 2 of EPCA
established the Energy Conservation
Program for Consumer Products Other
Than Automobiles, which sets forth a
variety of provisions designed to
improve energy efficiency. These
products include ceiling fans, the
subject of this document. (42 U.S.C.
6291(49), 42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(16)(A)(i)
and (B), and 42 U.S.C. 6295(ff))
The energy conservation program
under EPCA consists essentially of four
parts: (1) Testing, (2) labeling, (3)
Federal energy conservation standards,
and (4) certification and enforcement
1 All
references to EPCA in this document refer
to the statute as amended through the Energy Act
of 2020, Public Law 116–260 (Dec. 27, 2020).
2 For editorial reasons, upon codification in the
U.S. Code, Part B was redesignated Part A.
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procedures. Relevant provisions of
EPCA specifically include definitions
(42 U.S.C. 6291), test procedures (42
U.S.C. 6293), labeling provisions (42
U.S.C. 6294), energy conservation
standards (42 U.S.C. 6295), and the
authority to require information and
reports from manufacturers (42 U.S.C.
6296).
The Federal testing requirements
consist of test procedures that
manufacturers of covered products must
use as the basis for: (1) Certifying to
DOE that their products comply with
the applicable energy conservation
standards adopted pursuant to EPCA (42
U.S.C. 6295(s)), and (2) making
representations about the efficiency of
those consumer products (42 U.S.C.
6293(c)). Similarly, DOE must use these
test procedures to determine whether
the products comply with relevant
standards promulgated under EPCA. (42
U.S.C. 6295(s))
Federal energy efficiency
requirements for covered products
established under EPCA generally
supersede State laws and regulations
concerning energy conservation testing,
labeling, and standards. (42 U.S.C. 6297)
DOE may, however, grant waivers of
Federal preemption for particular State
laws or regulations, in accordance with
the procedures and other provisions of
EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6297(d))
Under 42 U.S.C. 6293, EPCA sets forth
the criteria and procedures DOE must
follow when prescribing or amending
test procedures for covered products.
EPCA requires that any test procedures
prescribed or amended under this
section be reasonably designed to
produce test results which measure
energy efficiency, energy use or
estimated annual operating cost of a
covered product during a representative
average use cycle or period of use and
not be unduly burdensome to conduct.
(42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3))
In addition, EPCA requires that DOE
amend its test procedures for all covered
products to integrate measures of
standby mode and off mode energy
consumption. (42 U.S.C. 6295(gg)(2)(A))
Standby mode and off mode energy
consumption must be incorporated into
the overall energy efficiency, energy
consumption, or other energy descriptor
for each covered product unless the
current test procedures already account
for and incorporate standby and off
mode energy consumption or such
integration is technically infeasible. If
an integrated test procedure is
technically infeasible, DOE must
prescribe a separate standby mode and
off mode energy use test procedure for
the covered product, if technically
feasible. (42 U.S.C. 6295(gg)(2)(A)) Any
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such amendment must consider the
most current versions of the
International Electrotechnical
Commission (‘‘IEC’’) Standard 62301 3
and IEC Standard 62087 4 as applicable.
(42 U.S.C. 6295(gg)(2)(A))
With respect to ceiling fans, EPCA
requires that test procedures be based
on the ‘‘Energy Star Testing Facility
Guidance Manual: Building a Testing
Facility and Performing the Solid State
Test Method for ENERGY STAR
Qualified Ceiling Fans, Version 1.1’’
published by the Environmental
Protection Agency, and that the
Secretary may review and revise the test
procedures established. (42 U.S.C.
6293(b)(16)(A)(i) and (B))
EPCA also requires that, at least once
every 7 years, DOE evaluate test
procedures for each type of covered
product, including ceiling fans, to
determine whether amended test
procedures would more accurately or
fully comply with the requirements for
the test procedures to not be unduly
burdensome to conduct and be
reasonably designed to produce test
results that reflect energy efficiency,
energy use, and estimated operating
costs during a representative average
use cycle or period of use. (42 U.S.C.
6293(b)(1)(A))
If the Secretary determines, on her
own behalf or in response to a petition
by any interested person, that a test
procedure should be prescribed or
amended, the Secretary shall promptly
publish in the Federal Register
proposed test procedures and afford
interested persons an opportunity to
present oral and written data, views,
and arguments with respect to such
procedures. The comment period on a
proposed rule to amend a test procedure
shall be at least 60 days and may not
exceed 270 days. In prescribing or
amending a test procedure, the
Secretary shall take into account such
information as the Secretary determines
relevant to such procedure, including
technological developments relating to
energy use or energy efficiency of the
type (or class) of covered products
involved. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(2)). If DOE
determines that test procedure revisions
are not appropriate, DOE must publish
its determination not to amend the test
procedures. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(1)(A)(ii))
DOE is publishing this SNOPR pursuant
to the 7-year review requirement
specified in EPCA.
3 IEC 62301, Household electrical appliances—
Measurement of standby power (Edition 2.0, 2011–
01).
4 IEC 62087, Methods of measurement for the
power consumption of audio, video, and related
equipment (Edition 3.0, 2011–04).
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B. Background
As stated, DOE’s existing test
procedures for ceiling fans appear at
Appendix U. DOE published a final rule
in the Federal Register on July 25, 2016
(‘‘July 2016 Final Rule’’), which
amended the test procedures for ceiling
fans at Appendix U. 81 FR 48620,
48622. On September 30, 2019, DOE
published a NOPR (‘‘September 2019
NOPR’’) proposing amendments to the
test procedure addressing questions
received from interested parties. 84 FR
51440. In the September 2019 NOPR,
DOE proposed to interpret the term
‘‘suspended from a ceiling’’ in the EPCA
definition of ceiling fan to mean offered
for mounting only on a ceiling; specify
that very small-diameter (‘‘VSD’’)
ceiling fans that do not also meet the
definition of low-speed small-diameter
(‘‘LSSD’’) ceiling fan are not required to
be tested pursuant to the DOE test
method; for LSSD and VSD ceiling fans,
increase the tolerance for the stability
criteria for the average air velocity
measurements during low speed tests;
specify that large-diameter ceiling fans
with blade spans greater than 24 feet do
not need to be tested pursuant to the
DOE test method; codify current
guidance on calculating several values
reported on the U.S. Federal Trade
Commission’s (‘‘FTC’’) EnergyGuide
label for LSSD and VSD ceiling fans;
and amend certification requirements
and product-specific enforcement
provisions to reflect the current test
procedures and recently amended
energy conservation standards for
ceiling fans. 84 FR 51440, 51442.
Additionally, on October 17, 2019, DOE
hosted a public meeting to present the
September 2019 NOPR proposals.
Table I.1 lists a subset of comments
received by DOE in response to the
September 2019 NOPR that are relevant
to this SNOPR.
TABLE I.1—SUBSET OF COMMENTS RECEIVED IN RESPONSE TO SEPTEMBER 2019 NOPR THAT ARE RELEVANT TO THIS
SNOPR
Commenter(s)
Reference in this SNOPR
Air Movement and Control Association International * ...................................
American Lighting Association .......................................................................
Anonymous .....................................................................................................
Big Ass Fans ..................................................................................................
Chris Ransom .................................................................................................
Hunter Fan Company .....................................................................................
Pacific Gas and Electric Company, San Diego Gas and Electric, and
Southern California Edison.
AMCA ................................................
ALA ....................................................
Anonymous ........................................
BAF ....................................................
Ransom .............................................
Hunter ................................................
CA IOUs ............................................
Commenter type
Trade Association.
Trade Association.
Individual Commenter.
Manufacturer.
Individual Commenter.
Manufacturer.
Utilities.
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DOE received two separate comment submissions from AMCA; however, the second comment replaced the first. See comment number 33 in
the docket (replacing comment number 30).
A parenthetical reference at the end of
a comment quotation or paraphrase
provides the location of the item in the
public record.5 This SNOPR only
discusses a subset of topics under
consideration as part of this test
procedure rulemaking and not all
comments received in response to the
September 2019 NOPR are addressed in
this SNOPR. Comments not addressed
in this SNOPR will be addressed in the
next stages of the rulemaking.
DOE, with the support of the ALA,
conducted a round robin test program
for ceiling fans to observe laboratory
setups and test practices, evaluate
within-laboratory variation (i.e.,
repeatability) and assess betweenlaboratory consistency (i.e.,
reproducibility). Round robin testing
was conducted from January 2019 to
April 2020. Six test laboratories
participated in the round robin,
representing both manufacturer
laboratories and third-party laboratories.
Four laboratories are located in North
America, and two are located in China.
ALA and ceiling fan manufacturers
5 The parenthetical reference provides a reference
for information located in the docket of DOE’s
rulemaking to develop test procedures for ceiling
fans. (Docket No. EERE–2013–BT–TP–0050, which
is maintained at www.regulations.gov/docket/EERE2013-BT-TP-0050). The references are arranged as
follows: (Commenter name, comment docket ID
number, page of that document).
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supplied two samples each of five
ceiling fan models (for a total of 10 test
samples). The laboratories were
instructed to test according to appendix
U. DOE representatives were present
during all testing to observe test setups
and practices used in a variety of labs.
In this SNOPR, DOE includes several
proposals based on test results and
observations made during round robin
testing. The round robin test report has
been separately published in the
docket.6
On May 27, 2021, DOE published a
final rule to amend the current
regulations for large-diameter ceiling
fans. 86 FR 28469 (‘‘May 2021 Technical
Amendment’’) The contents of these
technical amendments correspond with
provisions enacted by Congress through
the Energy Act of 2020. Id. Specifically,
section 1008 of the Energy Act of 2020
amended section 325(ff)(6) of EPCA to
specify that large-diameter ceiling fans
manufactured on or after January 21,
2020, are not required to meet minimum
ceiling fan efficiency requirements in
terms of the ratio of the total airflow to
the total power consumption as
established in a final rule published
January 19, 2017 (82 FR 6826; ‘‘January
6 The docketed round robin report can be found
in the rulemaking docket EERE–2013–BT–TP–0050.
www.regulations.gov/docket/EERE-2013-BT-TP0050.
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2017 Final Rule’’), and instead are
required to meet specified minimum
efficiency requirements based on the
Ceiling Fan Energy Index (‘‘CFEI’’)
metric. 86 FR 28469, 28469–28470. The
May 2021 Technical Amendment also
implemented conforming amendments
to the ceiling fan test procedure to
ensure consistency with the Energy Act
of 2020. 86 FR 28469, 28470.
On May 7, 2021, DOE published an
early assessment request for information
(RFI) undertaking an early assessment
review for amended energy conservation
standards for ceiling fans to determine
whether to amend applicable energy
conservation standards for this product.
86 FR 24538 (‘‘May 2021 RFI’’).
II. Synopsis of the Notice of Proposed
Rulemaking
In this SNOPR, DOE proposes to
update appendix U as follows:
(1) Specify that for the purpose of the
ceiling fan definition, ‘‘circulating air’’ means
the discharge of air in an upward or
downward direction with the air returning to
the intake side of the fan. A ceiling fan that
has a ratio of fan blade span (in inches) to
maximum rotation rate (in revolutions per
minute) greater than 0.06 provides
circulating air;
(2) Extend the scope of the test procedure
to include large diameter fans with a
diameter greater than 24 feet;
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(3) Include high-speed belt-driven and
large-diameter belt-driven ceiling fans within
scope;
(4) Add a standby power metric for largediameter ceiling fans;
(5) Modify the low-speed definition to
ensure that LSSD ceiling fans (including VSD
ceiling fans that also meet the definition of
an LSSD fan) are tested at a more
representative low speed rather than the
currently required ‘‘lowest available ceiling
fan speed’’;
(6) Allow use of an alternative procedure
for air velocity data collection that relies on
a two-arm sensor arm setup, and require
setups with arm rotation to stabilize the arm
prior to data collection;
(7) Clarify the alignment of air velocity
sensor placement on the sensor arm(s);
(8) Specify the instructions to measure
blade thickness for LSSD and HSSD ceiling
fan definitions;
(9) Specify test procedures for ceiling fans
with accessories and/or features; and
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(10) Amend product-specific rounding and
enforcement provisions for ceiling fans.
Table II.1 summarizes DOE’s
proposed actions compared to the
current test procedure, as well as the
reason for the proposed change.
TABLE II.1—SUMMARY OF CHANGES IN PROPOSED TEST PROCEDURE RELATIVE TO CURRENT TEST PROCEDURE
Current DOE test procedure
NOPR proposal
SNOPR proposal
Defines ‘‘ceiling fan’’ based on
EPCA as ‘‘a nonportable device
that is suspended from a ceiling
for circulating air via the rotation
of fan blades’’.
Interpreted the EPCA definition of
ceiling fan to mean those fans
offered for mounting only on a
ceiling and seeks comment on
a proposed alternative interpretation.
Response to industry comments.
Excludes large diameter fans with
a diameter of greater than 24
feet from the test procedure.
Specified that large-diameter ceiling with blade spans greater
than 24 feet do not need to be
tested pursuant to the DOE test
method.
N/A ................................................
Defines the term ‘‘circulating air’’
for the purpose of the ceiling
fan definition to mean ‘‘the discharge of air in an upward or
downward direction with the air
returning to the intake side of
the fan. A ceiling fan that has a
ratio of fan blade span (in
inches) to maximum rotation
rate (in revolutions per minute)
greater than 0.06 provides circulating air’’.
Includes large diameter fans with
a diameter of greater than 24
feet in the scope of the test
procedure.
Includes definitions and test procedures for high-speed beltdriven ceiling fans and large-diameter belt-driven ceiling fans.
Amends Appendix U to include a
standby power metric for largediameter ceiling fans.
Response to industry comments.
Defines ‘‘low speed’’ as the ‘‘lowest available ceiling fan speed
for which fewer than half or
three, whichever is fewer, sensors per individual axis are
measuring less than 40 feet per
minute.’’ Alternatively, DOE is
considering representing the
proposed definition as a table
instead, indicating the number
of sensors that must measure
>40 FPM.
Adds an alternative two-arm setup
to measure air velocity. Further,
adds requirement for setups
that require arm rotation to stabilize the arm to dissipate any
residual turbulence prior to data
collection.
Provides explicit instructions to
align the air velocity sensors
perpendicular to the airflow.
Improve the repeatability and reproducibility of the test procedure as determined during
round robin testing.
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Excludes all belt-driven ceiling fans
from the test procedure.
Includes a standby power test procedure, but no standby power
metric for large-diameter ceiling
fan CFEI metric. Prior to the Energy Act of 2020, the CFM/W
metric was applicable for largediameter ceiling fans, which included standby power.
Defines ‘‘low speed’’ as ‘‘the lowest available ceiling fan speed,
i.e., the fan speed corresponding
to the minimum, non-zero, blade
RPM’’.
N/A ................................................
Prescribes two setups, a four-arm
and one-arm sensor setup for
certain fan types.
N/A ................................................
Does not explicitly specify air velocity sensor alignment or acceptance angle.
N/A ................................................
Does not specify how fan blade
thickness should be measured.
Added specification to measure
fan blade thickness without
consideration of ‘‘rolled-edge’’
blade design.
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No proposed updates, but requested comment on updating
the definition of low speed to
‘‘as the lowest available ceiling
fan speed for which fewer than
half or three, whichever is
fewer, sensors on any individual axis are measuring less
than 30 feet per minute’’.
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Attribution
Adds specification to measure fan
blade thickness in a consistent
manner for all fan blade types
(including ‘‘rolled-edge’’ blade
designs).
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Response to industry comments.
42 U.S.C. 6295(gg)(2)(A) requires
test procedures for all products
to include standby mode and
off mode energy consumption.
Improve the repeatability and reproducibility of the test procedure as determined during
round robin testing.
Improve the repeatability and reproducibility of the test procedure as determined during
round robin testing.
Improve the repeatability and reproducibility of the test procedure.
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TABLE II.1—SUMMARY OF CHANGES IN PROPOSED TEST PROCEDURE RELATIVE TO CURRENT TEST PROCEDURE—
Continued
Current DOE test procedure
NOPR proposal
SNOPR proposal
Attribution
Does not include specific instructions on how ceiling fan accessories and/or features should be
incorporated into the test procedure.
Does not include any measurement tolerances for blade RPM
and blade edge thickness and
any rounding requirement for
represented values.
N/A ................................................
Specifies that accessories/additional features should be turned
off, when possible, before testing ceiling fans for active mode
and standby mode.
Updates measurement tolerances
for blade RPM to 2% and blade
edge thickness to ±0.01 inch.
Also updates rounding requirements for blade edge thickness
to ±0.01 inch. Includes new
rounding proposal for airflow at
high speed.
Improve representativeness and
reproducibility of the test procedure.
Included measurement tolerance
of at least ±0.1 inch for blade
edge thickness; within the
greater of 1% of the average
RPM at high speed (rounded to
the nearest RPM) or 1 RPM. Includes proposal that blade edge
thickness be rounded to ±0.1
inch.
Additionally, to provide interested
parties with a complete set of proposed
amendments, this SNOPR includes all
proposed regulatory text for the
proposals from the September 2019
NOPR and this SNOPR. DOE maintains
the following proposals from the
September 2019 NOPR: (1) Specifying
that VSD ceiling fans that do not also
meet the definition of LSSD fan are not
required to be tested pursuant to the
DOE test method for purposes of
demonstrating compliance with DOE’s
energy conservation standards for
ceiling fans or representations of
efficiency; (2) increasing the tolerance
for the stability criteria for the average
air velocity measurements for LSSD and
VSD ceiling fans that also meet the
definition of LSSD fan; (3) codifying in
regulation existing guidance on the
method for calculating several values
reported on the Federal Trade
Commission (FTC) EnergyGuide label
using results from the ceiling fan test
procedures in Appendix U to subpart B
of 10 CFR part 430 and represented
values in 10 CFR part 429; and (4)
amending product-specific represented
values, rounding and enforcement
provisions. 84 FR 51440, 51442. DOE
continues to review and consider
comments received on these proposals
and will address such comments in a
future stage of the rulemaking. DOE will
be addressing certification and reporting
requirements in a separate rulemaking.
DOE has tentatively determined that
the proposed amendments described in
section III of this SNOPR would not
require re-testing for a majority of
ceiling fans. The proposal to redefine
low speed would require retesting for a
limited number of LSSD ceiling fans, if
made final. Discussion of DOE’s
proposed actions are addressed in detail
in section III of this SNOPR, including
test procedure costs and cost savings.
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III. Discussion
Include rounding and enforcement
requirements for current standards.
The Energy Policy and Conservation
Act defines ‘‘ceiling fan’’ as ‘‘a
nonportable device that is suspended
from a ceiling for circulating air via the
rotation of fan blades.’’ (42 U.S.C.
6291(49)) DOE codified the statutory
definition in 10 CFR 430.2. In the July
2016 Final Rule, DOE stated that the test
procedure applies to any product
meeting this definition, including
hugger fans, fans designed for
applications where large airflow volume
may be needed, and highly decorative
fans. 81 FR 48620, 48622. DOE stated,
however, that manufacturers were not
required to test the following fans
according to the test procedure: Beltdriven ceiling fans, centrifugal ceiling
fans, oscillating ceiling fans, and ceiling
fans whose blades’ plane of rotation
cannot be within 45 degrees of
horizontal. Id.
In the September 2019 NOPR, DOE
proposed to clarify its interpretation of
the statutory definition in response to
an inquiry from the AMCA regarding
the application of the term ‘‘ceiling fan’’
to products known as ‘‘air circulating
fan heads (‘‘ACFHs’’).’’ 7 84 FR 51440,
51443–51445. In letters submitted to
DOE in May and July of 2019, AMCA
asserted that air circulating fan heads
have distinct characteristics and
functions compared to traditional
ceiling fans, including that air
circulating fan heads provide
concentrated directional airflow as
opposed to circulating air.8 (AMCA, No.
23 in both May and July 2019 letters, at
p. 1) AMCA recommended that DOE use
the physical characteristics of fan
diameter and rotational tip speed or
outlet air speed as a means to
distinguish fans that circulate air (as
necessary to meet the statutory
definition of ‘‘ceiling fan’’) from ACFHs
that provide directional air flow (i.e.,
fans excluded from the statutory
definition of ‘‘ceiling fan’’).9 (AMCA,
No. 23 in the July 2019 letter at p. 2)
Accordingly, in the September 2019
NOPR, DOE proposed to clarify the
definition of ‘‘ceiling fan’’ and proposed
two alternate definitions of the term.
The first proposed definition would
provide additional direction to
distinguish a ‘‘ceiling fan’’ from other
fans based on the ‘‘non-portable’’
element and ‘‘suspended from a ceiling’’
(i.e., ‘‘mounting’’) element of the
statutory definition. 84 FR 51440,
51444. Specifically, DOE proposed to
include within the definition that for
purposes of the definition, the term
‘‘suspended from a ceiling’’ means
offered for mounting on a ceiling, and
the term ‘‘nonportable’’ means not
offered for mounting on a surface other
than a ceiling.’’ Id.
The second proposed definition
would specifically reference ACFHs and
provide additional clarification on the
mounting element. 84 FR 51440, 51444.
Specifically, DOE proposed to include
within the definition that any fan,
including those meeting the definition
of an ‘‘air circulating fan head’’ in
7 Section 5.1.1 of ANSI/AMCA Standard 230–15
(‘‘AMCA 230–15’’), ‘‘Laboratory Methods of Testing
Air Circulating Fans for Rating and Certification,’’
defines air circulating fan head as ‘‘an assembly
consisting of a motor, impeller and guard for
mounting on a pedestal having a base and column,
wall mount bracket, ceiling mount bracket, I-beam
bracket or other commonly accepted mounting
means.’’
8 The May and July 2019 letters are available at
www.regulations.gov/document?D=EERE-2013-BTTP-0050-0023.
9 AMCA specifically recommended the use of tip
speed, which is calculated as blade diameter ×
3.14159 × rotational speed in RPM, and suggested
that the maximum tip speed of a ceiling fan would
be 4000 feet per minute. See May 2019 letter, page
2.
A. Scope of Ceiling Fan Definition
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AMCA 230–15, that does not have a
ceiling mount option, or that has more
than one mounting option (even if one
of the mounting options is a ceiling
mount), is not a ceiling fan. Such fans
do not meet the statutory criteria of
being ‘‘nonportable’’, ‘‘suspended from
the ceiling’’, and ‘‘for the purpose of
circulating air.’’ 84 FR 51440, 51444–
51445.
In addition to the alternate proposed
definitions, DOE acknowledged
AMCA’s suggestion of using tip speed or
outlet air speed to distinguish between
ACFHs and ceiling fans, and requested
comment and data on whether and how
the test procedure could be amended to
accommodate such a distinction. 84 FR
51440, 51445.
In response to the September 2019
NOPR, ALA explained that while the
first option is better than the alternative
definition, they opposed both options.
ALA stated that the first alternate
definition (distinguishing ceiling fans
based on ‘‘non-portable’’ and
‘‘mounting’’) is too broad, could create
a loophole for ceiling fans to be exempt
from the standards, and that
unregulated ceiling fans as a result of
this proposed definition would
eventually overtake the market. ALA
also stated that the second alternative
definition (referencing ACFHs and
‘‘mounting’’) it is too narrow, and
products that would be innovative or
meet a specific need in the market could
not be made or sold. (ALA, No. 34 at p.
2)
AMCA stated the proposal will
provide excessive opportunity for
currently regulated fans to escape
regulation. Further, AMCA identified
three large-diameter ceiling fan
(‘‘LDCF’’) manufacturers that offer or
have offered ground-mounted LDCFs
and suggested that with the proposed
reinterpretation, LDCF manufacturers
could chose to offer a floor-mount
option for their products and be exempt
from standards. AMCA also commented
that the proposed definition of
‘‘portable’’ would open a significant
loophole and explained that many
LDCFs are not hardwired in place.
(AMCA, No. 33 at pp. 2–3)
CA IOUs stated that DOE’s proposed
interpretation to only address fans
offered for mounting on a ceiling in the
September 2019 NOPR deviates from
the scope of products established under
the existing legislation and raises
concerns of potential gaming to avoid
product testing, as well as potential
backsliding for products that would be
newly exempted after being included in
the previous test procedure iteration.
(CA IOUs No. 31 at p. 2)
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Hunter commented that further
clarification and additional stipulations
beyond those proposed by DOE would
be required to prevent unwelcomed
loopholes and alleviate the possibility of
‘‘gaming the system’’ to claim an
exemption from testing. (Hunter No. 29
at p. 2) Anonymous commented that the
interpretations put forth in the NOPR
limit the applicability to nonportable
ceiling fans that are used to create air
circulation, and recommended that the
test procedures should apply to all fans,
even portable ones that may plug into
the wall, and are not necessarily for ‘‘air
circulation’’. (Anonymous, No. 32 at p.
1)
As an alternative to DOE’s proposal,
multiple interested parties
recommended that the definition of
ceiling fan be based on, in part, a ratio
of diameter to maximum operating
speed. Specifically, these commenters
suggested that a diameter-to-maximum
operating speed ratio less than 0.06
inches/RPM could be used to
distinguish products that are not ceiling
fans, i.e., air circulating fan heads.
(Hunter Fans, BAFs, Public Meeting
Transcript at pp. 33–35, AMCA, No. 33
at pp. 3–6; ALA, No. 34 at p. 2; and
Hunter No. 29 at p. 2). AMCA further
recommended that air-circulating fan
heads be named as a separate category
by DOE. (AMCA, No. 33 at p. 5) BAF
suggested that the ratio of diameter
(inches) to the maximum speed (RPM)
provides a reasonable means for
separating air circulating fan heads from
LSSD, HSSD and large-diameter ceiling
fans. (BAF, No. 36 at pp. 1–2) As a
justification of this ratio, AMCA
provided analysis of 528 fan models,
which included a total of 397 LDCF,
HSSD, and LSSD ceiling fan types, as
well as 131 ACFHs. Among the sample
of ACFH models, the highest diameterto-maximum operating speed ratio was
0.058, in comparison to the lowest
diameter-to-maximum operating speed
ratios for the three ceiling fan types
(0.353, 0.091, and 0.087 for LDCF,
HSSD, and LSSD, respectively).
Therefore, even the maximum ratio for
the sample of ACFH models is
significantly lower than the minimum
ratio for the other ceiling fan types, thus
showing a clear distinction between
ACFH and other ceiling fan types. Based
on this analysis, AMCA recommended
that ACFHs be designated as a separate
category by DOE in its ceiling fan
regulations, and that fans meeting the
definition of ACFH per AMCA 230 10
10 Section 5.1.1 of AMCA 230–15 defines air
circulating fan head as an ‘‘assembly consisting of
a motor, impeller and guard for mounting on a
pedestal having a base and column, wall mount
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and having a diameter-to-maximum
operating speed ratio less than or equal
to 0.06 inches/RPM are not ‘‘ceiling
fans’’. (AMCA, No. 33 at pp. 4–6)
Similarly, Hunter provided data
summarizing the ranges of diameter-tomaximum operating speed ratios for a
total of 414 fan models representing
LDCF, LSSD, and HSSD ceiling fan
categories and ACFHs. The data
indicated minimum values of the
diameter-to-maximum operating speed
ratio for the three ceiling fan types of
around 0.10, 0.09, and 0.09 (for LDCF,
HSSD, and LSSD, respectively) and a
maximum value for ACFHs of around
0.03. Based on this data, Hunter
suggested that a ratio of 0.06 would
provide a clear separation between
ACFHs and all other fan classifications.
(Hunter No. 29 at pp. 2–3)
ALA explained, in support of this
proposal, that high-velocity fan heads
are not used for the purpose of
circulating air within the meaning of
EPCA’s ‘‘ceiling fan’’ definition as these
fans do not create air circulation by
discharging air in the downward
direction for it to be returned to the
intake side of the fan with significant
momentum. Instead, ALA commented
that high-velocity fan heads provide
directional, concreated high speed
airflow targeted to a specific location.
(ALA, No. 34 at pp. 2–3)
AMCA also provided comments on
the extent to which the ceiling fan
design criteria (in 10 CFR
430.32(s)(1) 11) would be applicable for
ACFHs. Specifically, AMCA stated that
(1) the lighting requirements in 10 CFR
430.32(s)(1)(i) would only apply to a
very small portion of the ACFH
market 12 and that AMCA is unaware of
any ACFH with an integrated light kit;
(2) the adjustable speed requirement in
10 CFR 430.32(s)(1)(ii) could be
applicable, as some ACFHs offer
multiple operating speeds, but requiring
adjustable speeds would add cost to
single-speed products; and (3) the
capability of reverse fan action
requirement in 10 CFR 430.32(s)(1)(iii)
would not be applicable because reverse
fan action is typically used for air
bracket, ceiling mount bracket, I-beam bracket or
other commonly accepted mounting means.’’
11 The ceiling fan design criteria outlined in 10
CFR 430.32(s)(1) are: (i) Fan speed controls separate
from any lighting controls: (ii) Adjustable speed
controls (either more than 1 speed or variable
speed); (ii) the capability of reversible fan action,
except for (A) fans sold for industrial applications,
(B) fans sold for outdoor applications, and (c) cases
in which safety standards would be violated by the
use of the reversible mode.
12 AMCA explained that dock fans are the only air
circulation fans that are typically sold with a light,
but the light is typically attached to the mounting
arm, not integrated into the fan. (AMCA, No. 33 at
p. 7)
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mixing in the heating season, and the
blade shapes of ACFHs do not lend
themselves to great utility in the reverse
direction. AMCA was also not aware of
any ACFHs that were reversible and
stated that consumers also do not
purchase ACFHs for winter-mode (i.e.,
reverse direction) use. (AMCA, No. 3
pp. 7–8)
DOE performed an independent
analysis using available test data from
past DOE rulemakings and
manufacturer-provided data in support
of this test procedure rulemaking to
calculate the diameter-to-maximum
operating speed to determine whether
the currently regulated fans in the test
sample had a diameter-to-maximum
operating speed ratio of greater than
0.06, as AMCA’s provided data suggests.
The analysis confirmed that HSSD,
standard, and hugger ceiling fans have
a diameter-to-maximum operating speed
ratio of greater than 0.06 in/RPM, while
those fans identified as ACFHs have a
diameter-to-maximum operating speed
ratio of less than or equal to 0.06 in/
RPM.
TABLE III.1—SUMMARY OF DOE INDEPENDENT CF DEFINITION ANALYSIS
Number of
ceiling fans
Hugger .....................................................................................................................................................
Standard ..................................................................................................................................................
HSSD .......................................................................................................................................................
VSD ..........................................................................................................................................................
42
49
11
8
Minimum diameter-tomaximum-operatingspeed ratio
0.098
0.105
0.078
0.008
Maximum diameter-tomaximum-operatingspeed ratio
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ACFH .......................................................................................................................................................
In regards to VSD ceiling fans, all VSD
ceiling fans, for which DOE had
available test data, had a diameter-tomaximum operating speed ratio of less
than 0.06 in/RPM, indicating that a
threshold value of 0.06 in/RPM would
not distinguish all VSD ceiling fans
from ACFHs. VSDs are discussed further
in the discussion that follows.
In this SNOPR, DOE proposes to
define the term ‘‘circulating air’’, as it is
used in the ceiling fan definition and
include a specification that ceiling fans
with a maximum operating speed ratio
of greater than 0.06 in/RPM is
considered to provide circulating air.
EPCA does not define ‘‘circulating air,’’
but DOE understands that the term can
generally be understood as the discharge
of air in an upward or downward
direction with the air returning to the
intake side of the fan, i.e., the air is
circulated within a space. In contrast,
directional airflow targets the
discharged air at a specific location and
the discharged air does not return to the
intake side of the fan, i.e., directional
airflow moves air but does not circulate
it within the space. A fan that provides
directional airflow, as opposed to
‘‘circulating air’’, would not be a
‘‘ceiling fan’’ as that term is defined in
EPCA.
DOE tentatively concludes that the
diameter-to-maximum operating speed
ratio of 0.06 in/RPM is appropriate to
distinguish fans with directional airflow
from circulating airflow. Data submitted
by commenters as well as DOE’s
analysis indicate that a ratio of 0.06 in/
RPM would distinguish fans that
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circulate air from fans that provide
directional airflow and therefore are not
‘‘ceiling fans.’’ With the exception of
certain VSD ceiling fans, as described
further in the following paragraph,
application of this ratio will continue to
include within scope LDCF, HSSD, and
LSSD ceiling fans, as these fans provide
circulating airflow.
As described, certain VSD ceiling fans
have a diameter-to-maximum operating
speed ratio less than 0.06 and thus
would be excluded from the scope of
ceiling fans because of the proposed
definition for ‘‘circulating air’’. DOE
identifies these VSD ceiling fans as
‘‘high-speed’’ VSD ceiling fans because
the tip speeds of the VSD ceiling fans
discussed in Table III.1 all exceed the
LSSD definition tip speed threshold
(defined in section 1.16 of Appendix U),
regardless of the thickness of the blades.
Therefore, these VSD ceiling fans would
not meet the LSSD ceiling fan
definition. Further, as DOE discussed in
the September 2019 NOPR, the current
DOE test procedure provides a method
of testing only those VSD ceiling fans
that meet the LSSD ceiling fan
definition. 84 FR 51440, 51445. DOE
proposed in the September 2019 NOPR
to specify explicitly that VSD ceiling
fans that do not also meet the LSSD
definition are not required to be tested
pursuant to the DOE test method for the
purposes of demonstrating compliance
with DOE’s energy conservation
standards for ceiling fans or
representations of efficiency. Id.
With regard to consideration of
‘‘circulating air’’, DOE understands
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0.029
based on the physical characteristics of
the fans that these high-speed VSD
ceiling fans provide consumers with
directional high-speed airflow and do
not circulate air within the space.
Specifically, because of the small size
(i.e., smaller blade span compared to
other small-diameter ceiling fans) and
the higher speeds (i.e., tip speeds above
the LSSD ceiling fan definition
thresholds), the function of these ‘‘highspeed’’ VSD ceiling fans is more akin to
air circulating fan heads in that airflow
is targeted in a specific direction
without the air returning to the intake
side of the fan. For this SNOPR, DOE
initially determines that these highspeed VSD fans were inappropriately
covered and that because they provide
directional airflow and are not
‘‘circulating air’’, they would not be
considered ceiling fans. Further, DOE
notes that VSD ceiling fans (as a whole)
represent less than one percent of the
total ceiling fan market.
As discussed, the available data
indicates that a diameter-to-maximum
operating speed ratio of 0.06 in/RPM
would distinguish between fans that
provide air circulation and fans that
provide directional airflow. The
proposed definition for ‘‘circulating
air’’, which would incorporate this ratio
into the definition, would explicitly
exclude from the ceiling fan scope
ACFHs and ‘‘high-speed’’ VSDs having
a diameter-to-operating speed ratio of
less than 0.06 in/RPM. Therefore,
including a definition for air circulating
fan heads in DOE’s test procedure
would be unnecessary. DOE is therefore
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not proposing a definition for air
circulating fan head in this SNOPR.
In summary, in this SNOPR, DOE
proposes the following definition for
‘‘circulating air’’ for the purpose of the
ceiling fan definition:
Ceiling fan means a nonportable
device that is suspended from a ceiling
for circulating air via the rotation of fan
blades. For the purpose of this
definition:
(1) Circulating Air means the
discharge of air in an upward or
downward direction with the air
returning to the intake side of the fan.
A ceiling fan that has a ratio of fan blade
span (in inches) to maximum rotation
rate (in revolutions per minute) greater
than 0.06 provides circulating air.
(2) For all other ceiling fan related
definitions, see appendix U to this
subpart.
In proposing this amendment, DOE
notes that the design standards of EPCA
would not be applicable to ceiling fans
that do not meet the criteria of the
proposed definition. Specifically, EPCA
requires all ceiling fans manufactured
after January 1, 2007, to have: (i) Fan
speed controls separate from any
lighting controls; (ii) adjustable speed
controls (either more than 1 speed or
variable speed); and (iii) the capability
of reversible fan action, except for fans
sold for industrial applications, fans
sold for outdoor applications, and cases
in which safety standards would be
violated by the use of the reversible
mode. (42 U.S.C. 6295(ff)(1)(A)) The
energy conservation standards
established by DOE would also not be
applicable to such products.
Alternatively, DOE is considering
including the definition of ‘‘circulating
air’’ discussed previously within
appendix U, instead of within the
ceiling fan definition of 10 CFR 430.2.
DOE seeks comment on the proposed
definition of ‘‘circulating air’’ for the
purpose of the ceiling fan definition.
Specifically, DOE requests comment on
the use of a ‘‘diameter-to-maximum
operating speed’’ ratio to distinguish
fans with circulating airflow from
directional airflow, and the
appropriateness of using 0.06 in/RPM as
the threshold ratio. If another ratio
should be considered, DOE requests
additional data to corroborate that ratio.
DOE seeks comment on the
characterization of fans that would fall
below the 0.06 in/RPM threshold ratio,
such as certain high-speed VSD ceiling
fans that do not also meet the definition
of an LSSD fan. Specifically, DOE
request comment on the appropriateness
of excluding high-speed VSD ceiling
fans from scope of ‘‘ceiling fans.’’
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DOE seeks comment regarding
whether ‘‘circulating air’’ should be
defined within the definition of ceiling
fan at 10 CFR 430.2, as DOE has
proposed, or if ‘‘circulating air’’ should
be defined separately within appendix
U.
B. Scope of Test Procedure for LargeDiameter Ceiling Fans
Currently, section 3.4.1 of appendix U
specifies that the test procedure for
LDCFs is applicable for ceiling fans up
to 24 feet in diameter. While the test
procedure is only applicable for ceiling
fans up to 24 feet in diameter, there is
no language in the energy conservation
standards for large diameter ceiling fans
(in 10 CFR 430.32(s)(2)(ii)) that
explicitly limits the scope of the largediameter ceiling fan standards to largediameter ceiling fans with blade spans
24 feet or smaller.13
In the September 2019 NOPR, DOE
proposed that LDCFs with blade spans
greater than 24 feet do not need to be
tested pursuant to the DOE test
procedure for purposes of determining
compliance with DOE energy
conservation standards or making other
representations of efficiency due to the
lack of LDCFs on the market availability
of test facilities capable of testing
LDCFs, especially those with blade
spans greater than 24 feet. 84 FR 51440,
51449 (citing 81 FR 48620, 48632 (July
25, 2016)). In response, BAF provided
written comments and statements in the
public meeting that BAF does not
foresee a need for establishing a limit of
24 feet, which it described as artificial.
(Public Meeting Transcript at pp. 98–99;
see also BAF, No. 36 at p.2) AMCA
commented that ceiling fans larger than
24 feet in diameter are uncommon in
the United States due to requirements in
the United States Standard for the
Installation of Sprinkler Systems (NFPA
13). AMCA stated that in some
situations ceiling fans larger than 24 feet
in diameter could be used (e.g., where
sprinklers are not present), and that the
AMCA 230–15 test method should be
used for those ceiling fans. (AMCA, No.
33 at p. 8)
In this SNOPR, DOE is proposing to
remove the 24-foot blade span limit in
section 3.4.1 of appendix U. This
proposal is based on two primary
factors. First, because DOE’s test
procedure for LDCFs is based on AMCA
230–15, nothing inherent to the test
13 While, the Energy Act of 2020 updated 10 CFR
432(s)(2)(ii) to specify that large diameter ceiling
fans are subject to the CFEI metric, the previous
energy conservation standards or the amended
energy conservation standards imposed any upper
limit on the blade span for large-diameter ceiling
fans.
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procedure would prevent testing of a
ceiling fan greater than 24 feet. AMCA
230–15 provides minimum clearances
as a function of blade span, and does
not specify an upper limit on blade
span. Second, DOE received
confirmation that AMCA has a test
facility capable of testing ceiling fans
with blade spans substantially larger
than 24 feet, according to the minimum
clearances specified in AMCA 230–15.
DOE seeks comment on its proposal to
remove the 24-foot blade span limit in
section 3.4.1 of appendix U, which
would expand the scope of the test
procedure for LDCFs to ceiling fans with
blade span larger than 24 feet.
DOE was made aware that AMCA
230–15 was inconsistent in its
conversion of measurements to standard
air density. Whereas calculated thrust is
converted to standard air density
(section 9.3 of AMCA 230–15), electric
input power is not. Thrust (which is
used to determine airflow in cubic feet
per minute (CFM)) and electric input
power are inputs to the CFEI metric
described in AMCA 208–18. Therefore,
without the correction, the same fan can
have different values for CFEI
depending on the density of the air
where the fan is being tested. On May
5, 2021, AMCA made a correction to
address the inconsistency in the
industry standard in the form of a
technical errata sheet for AMCA 230–15.
The technical errata sheet details that
the corrections listed in the errata sheet
apply to all copies of AMCA 230–15.
Accordingly, in this SNOPR, DOE
clarifies that the technical errata sheet
applies to AMCA 230–15, which is
currently incorporated by reference in
10 CFR 430.3(b)(4).
C. Belt-Driven Ceiling Fans
Section 1.3 of appendix U defines a
belt-driven ceiling fan as ‘‘a ceiling fan
with a series of one or more fan heads,
each driven by a belt connected to one
or more motors that are located outside
of the fan head.’’ Moreover, in section
2 of appendix U, DOE excludes beltdriven ceiling fans from the scope of the
test procedure.
In response to the May 2021 RFI, DOE
received a number of comments
recommending including certain beltdriven ceiling fans within the scope of
the test procedure. Specifically, BAF
commented that a new type of beltdriven ceiling fan has come onto the
market since the last final rule that uses
larger motors and has higher tip speeds
(above 5000 feet per minute, or fpm).
(BAF, EERE–2021–BT–STD–0011, No.
14 at p. 2). AMCA also commented that
a new type of belt-driven fan has come
onto the market with a larger motor (1
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to 3 hp) and higher tip speeds (5000 to
6000 fpm). (AMCA, EERE–2021–BT–
STD–0011, No. 9 at p. 2) BAF
recommends that this new variety of
belt-driven fans be tested according to
AMCA 230–15/AMCA 208. (BAF,
EERE–2021–BT–STD–0011, No. 14 at p.
2). AMCA recommended separating
belt-driven fans into two classes—highspeed and low-speed—and to test highspeed belt-driven fans according to
ANSI/AMCA Standard 230–15,
including the technical erratum sheet
published by AMCA on May 5, 2021.
(AMCA, EERE–2021–BT–STD–0011,
No. 9 at p. 4; see also BAF, EERE–2021–
BT–STD–0011, No. 14 at p. 2)
In the July 2016 Final Rule, DOE
discussed that DOE would not propose
standards for belt-driven ceiling fans
due to the limited number of basic
models and lack of available data. 81 FR
48619, 48622. During the last
rulemaking, DOE’s review of the beltdriven ceiling fan market at the time
suggested that these fans are used in
bars and restaurants that have
decorative ceilings with limited
electrical boxes on the ceiling to mount
multiple conventional ceiling fans. In
addition, DOE noted that the observed
belt-driven ceiling fans were highly
customizable, in that consumers can
decide on the number of fan heads and
the kind of fan belts to use. At the time,
because these individual fan heads
could not be isolated in testing, they
could not be testing according to
appendix U as written and were thus
exempted. (See Chapter 3 of the
November 2016 Energy Conservation
Standards Final Rule Technical Support
Document 14). While DOE did not
establish a test procedure for these fans,
DOE noted that it would be
investigating appropriate test
procedures for belt-driven ceiling fans.
81 FR 48619, 48622.
Since the last rulemaking and based
on comments received, DOE has
identified higher speed, belt-driven
ceiling fans on the market, intended for
industrial and commercial applications.
DOE conducted market research and
found that these fans were typically
single-head fans housed in a cage,
frequently mounted to the ceiling by
straps or brackets as opposed to the
traditional downrod. They were
marketed for a variety of industrial
applications such as agriculture,
warehouses, and factories. Like other
belt-driven fans, the motors typically
exist outside of the housing for the fan,
but still located within the cage.
However, unlike other belt-driven
14 Found at: www.regulations.gov/document/
EERE-2012-BT-STD-0045-0149.
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ceiling fans, they are not customizable,
and the fan head can be isolated for
testing. DOE notes that, in contrast to
the low-speed multiple head belt-driven
ceiling fans, these designs allow singlehead belt-driven ceiling fans to be tested
using current test procedures in
appendix U. Therefore, DOE proposes to
include these higher speed single-head
belt-driven ceiling fans within the scope
of the test procedure, as long as these
fans meet the proposed amended ceiling
fan definition.
To distinguish these high-speed beltdriven ceiling fans with one fan head
from other low-speed, multiple head
belt-driven ceiling fans, DOE proposes
the following definition:
High-speed belt-driven (HSBD) ceiling
fan means a small-diameter ceiling fan
that is a belt-driven ceiling fan with one
fan head, and has tip speeds greater
than or equal to 5000 feet per minute.
DOE preliminarily concludes that
5000 fpm may be an appropriate
threshold based on recommendations
from the commenters. However, DOE is
considering other thresholds that may
be appropriate for the proposed
definition.
DOE seeks comment on including
within the test procedure scope HSBD
ceiling fans, the proposed term and
definition, and the appropriate tip speed
threshold. Furthermore, DOE requests
data on blade thickness and tip speeds
for these HSBD ceiling fans.
Further, DOE observed at least one
belt-driven ceiling fan that has a
marketed blade span greater than 7 feet.
DOE proposes to include such ceiling
fans in the test procedure scope. To
separate these ceiling fans from the
proposed HSBD ceiling fan scope, DOE
proposes the following definition:
Large-diameter belt-driven (LDBD)
ceiling fan means a belt-driven ceiling
fan with one fan head that has a
represented value of blade span, as
determined in 10 CFR 429.32(a)(3)(i),
greater than seven feet.
Within this definition, DOE proposes
to incorporate the specification for the
represented value of blade span as
proposed in the September 2019 NOPR.
84 FR 51440, 51450.
DOE seeks comment on including
within the test procedure scope LDBD
ceiling fans, and the proposed
definition.
Alternatively, DOE may consider a
combined term and definition for all
belt-driven ceiling fans that meet the
above scope of HSBD and LDBD ceiling
fans. Specifically, DOE could remove
the ‘‘small-diameter’’ part of the
aforementioned HSBD definition. By
removing ‘‘small-diameter’’ in the
definition, the alternate HSBD
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definition should accommodate beltdriven ceiling fans with blade spans
greater than seven feet. DOE
alternatively proposes that the term
high-speed belt-driven ceiling fan reads
as follows:
High-speed belt-driven ceiling fan
(HSBD) means a ceiling fan that is a
belt-driven ceiling fan with one fan
head, and has tip speeds greater than or
equal to 5000 feet per minute.
DOE seeks comment on the alternate
definition for HSBD ceiling fans, and
whether it would incorporate all the
LDBD ceiling fans from DOE’s primary
proposal. Further, DOE requests
comment on whether the HSBD and
LDBD ceiling fan scope should be
combined, i.e., what is the utility and
application of the two fan categories.
In conversations with manufacturers,
DOE learned that the HSBD ceiling fans
and LDBD ceiling fans move
significantly more air than HSSD ceiling
fans and as such, these fans could be
difficult to test under the small-diameter
ceiling fan test procedure (i.e., using
sensor arm setup) due to the possibility
of inducing vortexes in the smaller
testing room.15 Typically, HSSD fans
use a fractional horsepower (i.e., less
than 1 horsepower) direct-drive motor.
By contrast, these HSBD ceiling fans
and LDBD ceiling fans use a much larger
motor, often in excess of 1 horsepower
(‘‘HP’’), to spin with much higher tip
speeds.
DOE received comments from two
stakeholders on testing these fans to
AMCA 230–15. Both BAF and AMCA
also recommended testing all highspeed belt-driven fans according to
appendix U corrected, i.e., ANSI/AMCA
Standard 230–15. (AMCA, EERE–2021–
BT–STD–0011, No. 9 at p. 4; see also
BAF, EERE–2021–BT–STD–0011, No. 14
at p. 2) Therefore, DOE proposes to test
both HSBD ceiling fans and LDBD
ceiling fans according to AMCA 230–15.
DOE proposes to specify that HSBD
ceiling fans and LDBD ceiling fans be
tested using the test apparatus in
appendix U, section 3.4, which
references AMCA 230–15.16
DOE requests comment on requiring
AMCA 230–15 as the test procedure for
15 Vortexes in the testing room creates highly
turbulent air flow that revolves around an axis and
can move at differing speeds depending on the air
distance from the vortex center of rotation. These
swirling and turbulent air flows would make it
difficult for the air velocity sensors used in the
small-diameter ceiling fan test procedure to meet
the stability criteria.
16 AMCA 208–18 includes the calculation method
for the fan energy index (FEI). AMCA–208
references several other test methods for calculation
of fan air performance, depending on the fan type,
including AMCA 230–15. Both AMCA 208–18 and
AMCA 230–15 are referenced in appendix U.
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HSBD and LDBD ceiling fans, or
whether DOE should consider any other
test procedure.
While some of the HSBD ceiling fans
and LDBD ceiling fans are advertised as
being capable of variable speed
operation, and sold with a variable
speed drive, others are advertised as
only capable of single speed operation.
For HSBD and LDBD ceiling fans
capable of only single speed operation,
DOE proposes that both HSBD and
LDBD ceiling fans be tested only at high
speed operation. For HSBD and LDBD
ceiling fans capable of variable speed
operation, DOE proposes that HSBD and
LDBD ceiling fans also be tested at high
speed operation and 40 percent speed.
DOE requests comment on its
proposal to test single speed HSBD and
LDBD ceiling fans only at high speed
and variable speed HSBD and LDBD
ceiling fans at high speed and 40
percent speed. Alternatively, DOE
requests comment on the typical
number of operating speeds and hours
for HSBD ceiling fans and LDBD ceiling
fans.
As stated previously, the quantity of
air moved by HSBD ceiling fans and
LDBD ceiling fans is significantly
greater than HSSD ceiling fans on the
market and more similar to the max
airflow (or CFM) of large-diameter
ceiling fans. Therefore, DOE proposes
that the efficiency metric for both HSBD
ceiling fans and LDBD ceiling fans be
CFEI, consistent with large-diameter
ceiling fans. Therefore, DOE is
proposing to modify the language in
appendix U, section 3.5 to specify that
for HSBD ceiling fans and/or LDBD
ceiling fans capable of only single speed
operation, the CFEI should be calculated
only at high speed. Similarly, DOE is
proposing that for large-diameter,
HDBD, and LDBD ceiling fans the CFEI
be calculated at high speed and 40
percent speed.
Alternatively, DOE is also considering
the small-diameter ceiling fan metric,
CFM/W, for HSBD ceiling fans and/or
LDBD ceiling-fans. If DOE were to
consider a CFM/W metric, DOE would
need to account for the number of
operating hours in active mode and the
number of hours at each operating
speed. DOE would also need data on the
number of hours in standby mode.
DOE requests comment on whether
the efficiency of HDBD ceiling fans and
LDBD ceiling fans is more appropriately
evaluated using the CFEI or CFM/W
metric.
D. Standby Power Metric for LargeDiameter Ceiling Fans
As discussed previously, the Energy
Act of 2020 specifies that LDCFs are no
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longer required to meet minimum
ceiling fan efficiency requirements in
terms of the ratio of total airflow to total
power consumption, CFM/W, as
established in the January 2017 Final
Rule. (See also 42 U.S.C.
6295(ff)(6)(C)(i)(I)) Instead, Congress
established separate minimum
efficiency standards for two distinct
modes of LDCF operation. (42 U.S.C.
6295(ff)(6)(C)(i)(II)) Specifically,
Congress defined standards based on a
CFEI at high speed, and at 40 percent
speed or the nearest speed that is not
less than 40 percent speed. Id. The
Energy Act of 2020 amendments to
EPCA explain that ‘‘CFEI’’ means the
Fan Energy Index for large-diameter
ceiling fans, and that it is calculated in
accordance with ANSI/AMCA Standard
208–18 titled ‘‘Calculation of the Fan
Energy Index’’, with the following
modifications: Using an Airflow
Constant (Q0) of 26,500 cubic feet per
minute; using a Pressure Constant (P0)
of 0.0027 inches water gauge; and using
a Fan Efficiency Constant (h0) of 42
percent. (42 U.S.C. 6295(ff)(6)(C)(ii))
Whereas the CFM/W metric
incorporated active mode and standby
mode into a single metric, the new CFEI
metric, adopted in the Energy Act of
2020, incorporates only active mode,
without accounting for standby mode.
EPCA requires amended test
procedures and energy conservation
standards to incorporate standby mode
and off mode energy use.17 (42 U.S.C.
6295(gg)(2) and (3)) Amended test
procedures must integrate standby mode
and off mode energy consumption into
the overall energy efficiency, energy
consumption, or other energy
descriptor, unless the current test
procedures for a covered product
already incorporate standby mode and
off mode energy consumption, or such
an integrated test procedure is
technically infeasible, in which case the
Secretary shall prescribe a separate
standby mode and off mode energy use
test procedure for the covered product,
if technically feasible. (42 U.S.C.
6295(gg)(2)(A))
DOE has initially determined that it
would be technically infeasible to
17 EPCA defines ‘‘standby mode’’ as the condition
in which an energy-using product: Is connected to
a main power source, and offers one or more of the
following user-oriented or protective functions: (1)
The ability to facilitate the activation or
deactivation of other functions (including active
mode) by remote switch (including remote control),
internal sensor, or timer; and (2) continuous
functions, including information or status displays
(including clocks), or sensor-based functions. (42
U.S.C. 6295(gg)(1)(A)(iii)) ‘‘Off mode’’ is the
condition in which the ceiling fan is connected to
a main power source and is not providing any
standby or active mode function. (42 U.S.C.
6295(gg)(1)(A)(ii))
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integrate standby power with each of
the statutory CFEI requirements (i.e.,
high-speed requirement and 40-percent
requirement), such that the integrated
metric would be representative of an
average period of use as required by
EPCA. (See 42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3)) The
two standards for LDCFs established by
Congress require measurement of energy
efficiency at two separate modes of
operation, both of which occur during
active mode (i.e., operation of the fan at
high speed, and operation of the fan at
40 percent speed or the nearest speed
that is not less than 40 percent speed).
Each energy efficiency measurement, by
itself, does not fully represent active
mode energy efficiency (and even a
combination of the two may not fully
represent active mode).
Standby mode is a distinct mode from
either of the segments of active mode for
which energy efficiency is measured. If
an LDCF is consuming energy, but not
operating in active mode, it is operating
in either standby mode or off mode.18
Given that, as previously discussed,
each metric required by the Energy Act
of 2020 does not fully account for active
mode energy use/efficiency, neither
metric would be appropriately
representative if integrated with standby
mode operation because the resulting
metric would capture a portion of active
mode energy and the total standby
energy use. Such an integrated metric
would not be representative of an
average period of use. Further, were
standby power integrated into the
measurements required for both LDCF
standards, the same standby energy use
would be represented twice—once with
the integrated high-speed metric and
once with the integrated 40-percent
metric. The standby mode energy use
could be scaled to the active mode
energy use for the corresponding LDCF
standard, but under such a metric,
standby mode energy use would not be
fully captured. Even if both LDCF
standards were integrated with a scaled
standby energy use, the total standby
mode energy use may not be captured
because the measurements for the two
LCDF standards may not represent the
complete active mode operation.
For the reasons discussed in the
preceding paragraphs, DOE is proposing
a separate metric for standby mode
energy use.
Specifically, DOE proposes for the test
method for power consumption in
18 Consistent with the discussion in the October
2014 test procedure NOPR for ceiling fans, DOE’s
research continues to suggest that there is no off
mode power consumption for ceiling fans, so DOE
is not proposing an off-mode power efficiency
metric or off mode testing. See 79 FR 62522, 62524
(Oct. 17, 2014).
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standby mode already established in
section 3.6 of appendix U to remain
applicable to LCDFs. The standby mode
test method measures standby power in
watts and is based on IEC standard
62301:2011, with modifications to
reduce test burden by reducing the
interval of time over which testing
occurs as well as the period of time
required prior to standby testing.
DOE notes that no standby standard is
currently applicable to LDCFs and that
were DOE to adopt the proposed
standby test procedure and metric for
LDCFs, manufacturers would not be
required to test to that provision until
such time as compliance is required
with an energy conservation standard
for standby mode, should such a
standard be established.
DOE seeks comment on its
preliminary determination that
establishing an integrated metric that
incorporates the energy efficiency
measured as required under each LCDF
standard and the energy use measured
during standby mode would be
technically infeasible.
DOE seeks comment on its proposal to
specify for LDCFs a separate standby
mode energy use metric, which would
be based on the standby power
procedure defined in section 3.6 of
appendix U.
DOE also notes that if a CFEI standard
is established for HSBD ceiling fans and
LDBD ceiling fans, as is being proposed
in this SNOPR, a separate standby mode
energy use metric would need to be
established. Similar to the LDCFs, DOE
proposes for the test method for power
consumption in standby mode already
established in section 3.6 of appendix U
to be applicable to HSBD ceiling fans
and/or LDBD ceiling fans. The standby
mode test method measures standby
power in watts and is based on IEC
standard 62301:2011, with
modifications to reduce test burden by
reducing the interval of time over which
testing occurs as well as the period of
time required prior to standby testing.
Alternatively, were DOE to decide
that a CFM/W metric is more
appropriate for HSBD and LDBD ceiling
fans, DOE proposes that the standby
power would be incorporated into the
CFM/W metric, similar to other smalldiameter ceiling fans, and would be
calculated according to section 3.6 of
appendix U.
DOE seeks comment on its proposal to
specify for HSBD ceiling fans and LDBD
ceiling fans a separate standby mode
energy use metric, which would be
based on the standby power procedure
defined in section 3.6 of appendix U.
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E. Low-Speed Definition
Section 1.12 of appendix U defines
low speed to mean ‘‘the lowest available
ceiling fan speed, i.e., the fan speed
corresponding to the minimum, nonzero, blade RPM.’’
In the September 2019 NOPR, DOE
described that through round robin
testing and industry inquiry, DOE is
aware that the lowest available fan
speed on some ceiling fans provides an
extremely low rotation rate, leading to
atypically low airflow. 84 FR 51440,
51446. Because of the extremely low
rotation rate and atypically low airflow
consumers are unlikely to use such a
setting to circulate air. It is expected
that such a low fan speed is provided
for aesthetic purposes; for example, one
such product advertises the lowest
speed as helping to maintain a ‘‘calm
atmosphere.’’ 19 For such products, the
lowest speed available on the ceiling fan
is not representative of the lowest speed
for that product that can provide
‘‘circulation of air’’.
In addition to not being representative
of a speed that can circulate air, DOE
has observed through round robin
testing that requiring testing at the
‘‘lowest available speed’’ on such
products creates added test burden
because laboratories have difficulty
meeting the stability criteria 20 despite
routinely achieving stability for other
fans (without such extremely low speed
settings). 84 FR 51440, 51446–51447.
Accordingly, in the September 2019
NOPR, DOE stated that it is considering
modifying the definition of low speed.
Specifically, DOE suggested defining the
low speed for the purpose of testing as
the lowest available ceiling fan speed
for which fewer than half or three,
whichever is fewer, sensors on any
individual axis are measuring less than
30 feet per minute (‘‘FPM’’). In
conjunction, DOE considered providing
explicit instructions in the test
procedure to start at the lowest speed
and move to the next highest speed
until the modified low speed criteria are
met. DOE requested comment on this
modification. 84 FR 51440, 51447
In response to the September 2019
NOPR, ALA, AMCA, BAF, Hunter and
Ransom supported DOE’s proposal to
redefine low speed. (ALA, No. 34 at p.
19 See example product brochure at https://
www.lowes.com/pd/Hunter-52-in-Indoor-Multiposition-Ceiling-Fan-with-Light-Kit-5-Blade/
1270423 which discusses the fan’s ‘‘serenity
speed’’.
20 Section 3.3.2(1) of Appendix U defines the
stability criteria for airflow. Airflow is considered
stable if the average air velocity for all axes for each
sensor varies by less than 5% compared to the
average air velocity measured for that same sensor
in a successive set of air velocity measurements.
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3; AMCA, No. 33 at p. 8; BAF No. 36
at p. 2; Hunter No. 29 at p. 4; Ransom,
No. 35 at p. 1) During the public
meeting, AMCA discussed how low
speed in a residential setting sometimes
serves as a different function for the
consumer than the movement and
recirculation of air (i.e., ‘‘serenity
mode’’) and measuring this speed under
the current test procedure is erratic and
can end up being a non-qualifying test.
(AMCA, Public Meeting Transcript at p.
52–53) Westinghouse also was generally
supportive of the proposal.
(Westinghouse, Public Meeting
Transcript at p. 57) Ransom suggested
that adding an exception for fans with
‘‘serenity modes’’ 21 would benefit
manufacturers in applications where
this aesthetic is desired. (Ransom, No.
35 at p. 1) ALA and Hunter commented
that the ‘‘serenity’’ features satisfy a
consumer aesthetic desire or provide
decorative utility. (ALA, No. 34 at p. 4;
Hunter No. 29 at p. 4) In response to
DOE’s suggested definition in the
September 2019 NOPR, ALA
commented that ‘‘low speed’’ should be
defined as ‘‘the lowest available ceiling
fan speed for which fewer than half or
three, whichever is fewer, sensors on
any individual axis are measuring less
than 40 FPM, rather than 30 FPM.’’
(ALA, No. 34 at p. 3) BAF also suggested
40 FPM as the lowest speed at which
draft begins to be felt at the occupant
level. (BAF, Public Meeting Transcript
at p. 61)
The current definition of low speed
could require testing LSSD ceiling fans
and VSD ceiling fans that also meet the
definition of an LSSD fan at a speed
with an extremely low rotation rate,
which consumers are unlikely to use to
circulate air. Rather, as suggested by
Hunter and ALA, this speed is used
more for a consumer aesthetic desire, as
indicated by this speed being advertised
as helping to maintain a ‘‘calm
atmosphere.’’ For such products, the
low speed as defined for the purpose of
the current DOE test procedure is not
representative of the low speed required
for ‘‘circulation of air’’.22 Further, as
observed through round robin testing
and as discussed previously, requiring
testing at the ‘‘lowest available speed’’
21 DOE interprets ‘‘serenity mode’’ as the speed
with an extremely low rotation rate, leading to a
typically low airflow.
22 DOE has proposed to define circulating air as
‘‘the discharge of air in an upward or downward
direction with the air returning to the intake side
of the fan. A ceiling fan that has a ratio of fan blade
span (in inches) to maximum rotation rate (in
revolutions per minute) greater than 0.06 provides
circulating air.’’ The extremely low rotation rates
described in this section provide insufficient air
movement for the discharge of air to return to the
intake side of the fan.
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would be overly burdensome to test
because laboratories have trouble
meeting the stability criteria.
For the September 2019 NOPR, DOE
initially developed the 30 FPM
threshold by identifying the threshold
below which several common varieties
of air velocity sensors could no longer
meet the test procedure accuracy and
stability requirements. 84 FR 51440,
51447. However, DOE had also stated in
the September 2019 NOPR that ceiling
fans with low speeds that produce air
velocities lower than 40 FPM may have
trouble meeting the stability criteria. 84
FR 51440, 51446. As noted, section 3.2
of appendix U specifies that air velocity
sensors must have an accuracy within
±5% of reading or 2 FPM, whichever is
greater. In further reviewing these
accuracy requirements, DOE notes that
the 2 FPM accuracy tolerance can be
determined by multiplying the 5 percent
accuracy requirement with 40 FPM,
indicating that an air velocity threshold
of 40 FPM, rather than 30 FPM, would
better align with these established
stability criteria. Furthermore, for the
September 2019 NOPR proposal of a 30
FPM threshold, DOE had not evaluated
every sensor used by laboratories and
considered the commenters’ proposals
to use a 40 FPM threshold to be more
representative based on industry
experience.
For the reasons discussed, DOE
proposes to amend the low-speed
definition as follows:
Low speed means the lowest available
ceiling fan speed for which fewer than
half or three, whichever is fewer,
sensors per individual axis are
measuring less than 40 feet per minute.
Alternatively, DOE is considering
representing the proposed definition as
a table indicating the number of sensors
that must measure >40 FPM, as follows:
Low speed means the lowest available
speed that meets the following criteria:
Number of sensors per
individual axis as
determined in section
3.2.2(6) of Appendix U
Number of sensors per
individual axis
measuring 40 feet per
minute or greater
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
2
3
3
4
4
5
6
7
8
9
Furthermore, DOE proposes to
include explicit instructions in the test
procedure to start at the lowest speed
and move to the next highest speed
until the modified low speed criteria are
met. This would ensure the
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identification of the lowest speed of the
fan that meets the proposed low speed
definition. DOE understands that most
LSSD ceiling fans have distinct speed
settings and would be able to
accommodate this proposal.
DOE expects that this proposed
amendment would reduce the total test
time per unit for low speed tests for a
subset of LSSD ceiling fans. Under the
current test procedure, the low speeds
in question would likely require
laboratories to run tests for a long period
(potentially the full duration of the
laboratories’ local operating procedures
limit) before achieving the necessary
stability criteria requirements. The
proposed alternate test method could
mitigate the occurrence of these long
test runs. DOE estimates that
manufacturers of LSSD ceiling fans that
conduct testing in-house could save
approximately 60 minutes in per unit
testing time due to the new low speed
criteria.
DOE does not expect this amendment
to require retesting or to change
measured efficiency for the majority of
LSSD ceiling fans. However, for the
small subset of LSSD ceiling fans for
which the lowest speed is at an
extremely low rotation rate and
provides a low airflow, retesting may be
required if the lowest speed does not
meet the proposed definition of low
speed. In the instances under the
proposal for which testing at the next
highest speed were to be required,
testing at the next highest speed would
likely result in increased power
consumption, but it would also result in
increased airflow. The resulting ceiling
fan efficiency is calculated by weighting
the airflow and power consumption
results from the high speed test (which
is not proposed to be amended) with the
low speed test, resulting in a weighted
average CFM/W (Equation 1, Appendix
U). Because the measured efficiency is
a ratio of airflow and power
consumption and testing at the next
highest speed would result in an
increase in airflow as well as power
consumption, DOE expects the low
speed proposal to have insignificant
effect on ceiling fan efficiency for the
applicable subset of LSSD ceiling fans.
The potential cost and cost saving
impacts of this proposal are discussed
in section III.K.1.a. of this document.
DOE seeks comment on the proposal
to update the low speed definition as
follows: Low speed means the lowest
available ceiling fan speed for which
fewer than half or three, whichever is
fewer, sensors per individual axis are
measuring less than 40 feet per minute.
DOE also seeks comment on the
alternate proposal to represent low
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speed as a table specifying the number
of sensors per individual axis required
to measure greater than 40 feet per
minute.
DOE seeks comment on the proposal
to require testing to start at the lowest
speed and move to the next highest
speed until the modified low speed
criteria are met. Specifically, DOE seeks
comment on whether any applicable
variable speed LSSD ceiling fans
(without distinct speed settings) would
require further specificity on this
proposal and if so, how it should be
specified.
Hunter, ALA, BAF and AMCA further
commented that if either tested fan
sample (per DOE sampling
requirements) has a lowest-speed setting
that does not meet the definition of low
speed under this proposal, both samples
should be tested at the next highest
speed. (Hunter, No. 29 at p. 4; ALA, No.
34 at p. 3; BAF, No. 36 at p. 2; AMCA,
No. 33 at p. 8) DOE requires that ceiling
fan representation must be based on
sampling requirements prescribed at 10
CFR 429.11, which specifies that the
minimum number of units tested shall
be no less than two. 10 CFR 429.32.
Testing of ceiling fans must be
conducted according to Appendix U,
which as proposed, would require
determining the setting that meets the
definition of low speed individually for
each of the units in the sample, if
applicable. As discussed previously, 40
FPM is representative of the low speed
required for ‘‘circulation of air’’. To the
extent that there is any variation within
the sample of fans for a basic model,
determining the setting that meets the
definition of low speed individually for
each unit in the sample would
correspond to how each unit in the
sample would be operating during a
representative average use cycle.
DOE requests comment on the extent
to which, for DOE certification
purposes, an individual unit within a
sample of fans (per basic model) could
have a different setting that meets the
proposed definition of low speed than
other units within the same sample. If
so, DOE requests data on how the issue
could affect representativeness (in terms
of ceiling fan efficiency) of the basic
model.
F. Sensor Arm Setups
To record air velocity readings,
Section 3.3.2 of appendix U prescribes
two setups for taking airflow
measurements along four perpendicular
axes (designated A, B, C, and D): A
single rotating sensor arm or four fixed
sensor arms. If using a single rotating
sensor arm, airflow readings are first
measured on Axis A, followed by
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successive measurements on Axes B, C,
and D. If using four fixed sensor arms,
the readings for all four axes are
measured simultaneously. See Steps 4
and 5 of section 3.3.2(2) of appendix U.
The team has observed that valid results
are generally attained more quickly
using the four-arm setup because
measurements are taken simultaneously
in all four axes and stability can be
achieved in fewer runs (i.e., a complete
set of air velocity measurements for all
axes). However, a four-arm setup is
more expensive because it requires at
least 4 times as many sensors. This
setup is typically used by laboratories
that primarily test LSSD fans (which
require low airflow to be measured) or
laboratories that test large quantities of
fans, for which a faster throughput is
important. A single-arm setup is less
expensive and is typically used by
laboratories that test mostly high-speed
ceiling fans or test very few ceiling fans.
The single-arm setup requires the
rotation of the arm every 100 seconds,
which disrupts the air, often increasing
the time to achieve stability. Assuming
it takes 3 cycles to reach stability for the
low-speed test (i.e., average air velocity
across all sensors for cycles 2 and 3
meet the stability criteria), the test
length would be around 16 minutes for
the four fixed arm unit and around 41
minutes for the single rotating arm
unit.23 During round robin testing, DOE
personnel noted that laboratories using
the single rotating sensor arm waited
approximately 30 seconds for arm
vibration to dissipate before starting
data collection at the new position,
adding a minimum of 1 minute 30
seconds to each test cycle.
During round-robin testing,
laboratories with single-arm setups were
able to achieve stability for 75 percent
of fans tested, as compared to 96 percent
for laboratories using four-arm setups.
To address stability issues in a singlearm setup, DOE proposes, based on
observations from the round robin
testing, to provide explicit instruction
for setups that require arm rotation to
stabilize the arm and allow 30 seconds
between test runs for any residual
turbulence to dissipate prior to data
collection after each rotation. While this
additional instruction would increase
testing time of each axis, based on
observation through round robin testing,
DOE has initially determined that this
requirement could further contribute to
more accurate and stable airflow
measurements during testing. In some
23 These time frames were determined in the
round robin report, found in the rulemaking docket
EERE–2013–BT–TP–0050. www.regulations.gov/
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cases, this could reduce overall testing
time by avoiding the need to retest to
meet the required air velocity stability
criteria (section 3.3.2(1) of appendix U).
As an alternative to the single- and
four-arm setup options, DOE also
proposes to allow laboratories to rely on
test setups with two arms, so that the
system would need to be rotated only
once to collect data for all four axes. A
two-arm setup would require less time
to collect the necessary data than a 1arm setup and would therefore reduce
testing burden for laboratories currently
using a 1-arm setup. It would also
require fewer sensors than a four-arm
setup, and could therefore provide a
cost-effective approach to achieve
stability conditions more easily at low
speed. DOE proposes to amend sections
3.2.2(4) and 3.3.2 of appendix U to
accommodate the use of a two-arm
setup.
DOE seeks comment on the proposed
requirement to add 30 seconds between
test runs for a rotating arm setup (either
single-arm or two-arm).
DOE seeks comment on its proposal to
permit the use of a two-arm setup, as
well as any data to confirm that a 2-arm
option produces comparable results to
the existing 1-arm and 4-arm options.
G. Air Velocity Sensor Mounting Angle
Section 3.2.2 of appendix U does not
specify the applicable mounting angle of
the sensors on the sensor arm.
Air velocity is most accurately
measured by aligning the velocity
sensor perpendicular to the airflow
path, as this is the orientation for which
the airflow through the openings of the
sensor is smooth and free of turbulence.
However, during recent round robin
testing, the team noted that some air
velocity sensors were not aligned
perpendicular to the path of airflow. A
misaligned velocity sensor could
produce inaccurate air velocity
measurements. Therefore, to ensure
consistent air velocity alignment, DOE
proposes to include explicit instructions
in section 3.2.2(6) of appendix U to
align the air velocity sensors
perpendicular to the direction of
airflow. DOE could also consider
updating Figure 2 of appendix U (which
would be renumbered as Figure 3 in this
proposal), or adding a new figure, to
depict more clearly the alignment of the
velocity sensors perpendicular to the
direction of airflow.
DOE requests comment on its
proposal to specify aligning the air
velocity sensors perpendicular to the
airflow. DOE also requests comment on
whether it should revise Figure 2 of
appendix U, and/or provide an
additional figure, to depict more clearly
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the alignment of the velocity sensors
perpendicular to the direction of
airflow.
H. Instructions To Measure Blade
Thickness
Sections 1.8 and 1.13 in appendix U
incorporate a fan blade thickness
threshold of 3.2 mm within the
definitions of HSSD ceiling fan and
LSSD ceiling fan, respectively. Blade
edge thickness is used to distinguish
product classes because it relates to
safety considerations that, in turn, relate
to where a ceiling fan is likely to be
installed. Commercial and industrial
ceiling fans are typically installed in
locations with higher ceilings, and
therefore thin leading edges on the
blades do not present the safety hazard
that thin leading edges would present
on ceiling fans that are installed at
lower heights, i.e., residential ceiling
fans.
Appendix U currently does not
provide instruction for how to measure
fan blade thickness. In the September
2019 NOPR, DOE proposed that blade
edge thickness for small diameter fans
be measured at the leading edge of the
fan blade (i.e., the edge in the forward
direction) with an instrument having a
measurement resolution of at least a
tenth of an inch. DOE also proposed the
following instructions for measuring
blade edge thickness to ensure test
procedure reproducibility, given
potential variations in blade
characteristics: (1) Measure at the point
at which the blade is thinnest along the
radial length of the fan blade and is
greater than or equal to one inch from
the tip of the fan blade, and (2) Measure
one inch from the leading edge of the
fan blade. 84 FR 51440, 51450.
DOE has subsequently become aware
of a ‘‘rolled-edge’’ blade design on a
residential ceiling fan for which the
thickness of the body of the blade is less
than 3.2 mm, but that has a curled shape
along the leading edge, with the curl
having an outer thickness greater than
3.2 mm. For such a rolled-edge blade,
the blade thickness measurement
procedure proposed in the September
2019 NOPR would indicate a ‘‘thin
blade’’ despite the thicker leading edge,
resulting in the fan being classified as
an HSSD, which as discussed are
generally non-residential fans.
Conversely, measuring the thickness at
the rolled edge (less than one inch from
the leading edge) would result in the fan
being classified as an LSSD, which are
generally residential fans. In order to
measure blade thickness for ‘‘rollededge,’’ flat, tapered, and other ceiling
fan blade types in a manner that will
consistently classify ceiling fans with
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these blade types into the right product
class, DOE is proposing to update the
proposal for measuring blade thickness
as follows: (1) Locate the cross section
perpendicular to the fan blade’s radial
length, that is at least one inch from the
tip of the fan blade and for which the
blade is thinnest, and (2) measure the
thickest point of that cross section
within one inch from the leading edge
of the fan blade.
DOE expects that this proposal would
result in ceiling fans with ‘‘rolled-edge’’
blade designs being assigned to the
appropriate product class, while having
minimal effect on the blade thickness
measurement of other blade types
relative to the proposal in the
September 2019 NOPR.
DOE seeks comment on its proposal to
measure ceiling fan blade thickness at
the thickest point within 1″ of the
blade’s leading edge, along the plane
perpendicular to the blade’s radial
length at which the blade is thinnest.
Specifically, DOE seeks feedback on if
this update will prevent ceiling fans
from being incorrectly classified into the
wrong product class. DOE also
welcomes feedback on if the blade
thickness should be measured within 1″
of the leading edge, or if the allowable
thickness measurement zone should be
restricted to closer to the leading edge
(e.g., within 1⁄2″ or 1⁄4″ of the leading
edge).
I. Specifications for Ceiling Fans With
Accessories
Sections 3.3.1 (‘‘Test conditions to be
followed when testing’’) and 3.5.1 of
appendix U, require that a ceiling fan’s
heater and light kit be installed, but not
energized during the power
consumption measurement. These
provisions are in place to include any
impact these accessories might have on
airflow, but prevent any reduction of the
measured airflow efficiency that would
result from including power
consumption that does not relate to the
ceiling fan’s ability to circulate air.
Beyond heaters and light kits, an
increasing number of ceiling fan models
on the market contain other features,
such as air ionization and ultraviolet
technology, that do not relate to the
ceiling fan’s ability to circulate air, but
that consume power and therefore could
reduce the measured airflow efficiency.
DOE proposes to amend the language
in sections 3.3.1 and 3.5.1 in appendix
U to apply more broadly to any
additional accessories or features that
do not relate to the ceiling fan’s ability
to create airflow by rotation of the fan
blades. Specifically, DOE proposes that
such accessories or features must not be
energized during testing. If the
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accessory or feature cannot be turned
off, it shall be set to the lowest energyconsuming mode during testing. This
proposal would clarify the application
of the test procedure to ceiling fans with
accessories or features other than light
kits and heaters, while not incurring
additional test costs or burdens. DOE
does not expect this clarification to
result in manufacturers having to re-test
their ceiling fans, because DOE expects
that manufacturers would have set such
accessory features to their lowest
energy-consuming state during testing.
DOE seeks comment on its proposal to
require that testing be performed
without any additional accessories or
features energized, if possible; and if
not, with the additional accessories or
features set at the lowest energyconsuming mode for testing.
Manufacturers are already required to
determine this value if making
representations under the current test
procedure for ceiling fans and will be
required to use this value to ensure the
products they distribute in commerce
comply with the amended energy
conservation standards. Further, the
rounding of airflow to the nearest CFM
is consistent with the current DOE
guidance for the Federal Trade
Commission (‘‘FTC’’) EnergyGuide
label.
DOE seeks comment on its proposal to
specify that any represented value of
airflow (CFM) at high speed, including
the value used to determine whether a
ceiling fan is a highly-decorative ceiling
fan, is determined pursuant to 10 CFR
429.32(a)(2)(i) and rounded to the
nearest CFM.
J. Product Specific Rounding and
Enforcement Provisions
2. Blade Edge Thickness Rounding and
Tolerance
Appendix U of 10 CFR part 430
currently does not prescribe
measurement tolerances for blade edge
thickness. The September 2019 NOPR
proposed that blade edge thickness for
small-diameter ceiling fans be measured
with an instrument with a measurement
resolution of at least one tenth of an
inch. Further, DOE proposed that blade
edge thickness be rounded to the nearest
tenth of an inch, effectively providing a
tolerance range of ±0.1 in. See 84 FR
51440, 51450–1. This tolerance would
enable both tape measures and calipers
to be used for this measurement, which
typically have resolutions of 1/32 in
(0.03 in) and 0.001 in, respectively. In
response to the September 2019 NOPR,
ALA and Hunter suggested that blade
edge thickness should be measured with
dial calipers only. (Hunter No. 29 at p.5;
ALA, No. 34 at p. 4) Hunter stated that
the proposed blade thickness resolution
of 0.1 inches is too large and that a tape
measure cannot be used, and instead
recommended that the required
instrument resolution should be 0.001
in, with a measurement tolerance of ±1/
32 in. (Hunter No. 29 at p. 5)
Upon further consideration, DOE
recognizes that a rounding and tolerance
requirement of ±0.1 in would not
provide sufficient resolution (i.e.
number of digits) to represent fan blade
edge thickness in relation to the 3.2 mm
(0.126 in) threshold defined in Sections
1.8 and 1.13 in appendix U. Based on
observation from round robin testing,
DOE understands that most, if not all,
laboratories use calipers to measure
blade edge thickness. Accordingly, in
this SNOPR, DOE proposes to require
the use of an instrument with a
measurement resolution of at least 0.001
in, and for the blade edge thickness
1. Airflow (CFM) at High Speed
Rounding
In the September 2019 NOPR, DOE
proposed amendments to 10 CFR 429.32
to specify that represented values are to
be determined consistent with the test
procedures in appendix U and to
specify rounding requirements for
represented values. 84 FR 51440, 51450.
DOE proposed represented value and
rounding requirements for productspecific information that was necessary
to determine the minimum allowable
ceiling fan efficiency and the proper
category of certain ceiling fans,
including blade span, blade RPM, blade
edge thickness and distance between the
ceiling and the lowest point on the fan
blades. Id In this SNOPR, DOE is
proposing alternate rounding
requirements for blade edge thickness,
as discussed in section III.J.2.
DOE notes that airflow (CFM) at high
speed is also product-specific
information required to determine
product category. Specifically, airflow
(CFM) at high speed is required to
determine whether a ceiling fan is a
highly-decorative ceiling fan. While 10
CFR 429.32(a)(2)(i) already provides the
represented value calculation for
airflow, neither that section nor
appendix U provides any rounding
requirements for airflow at high speed
as it relates to determining whether a
ceiling fan is a highly-decorative ceiling
fan. Accordingly, in this SNOPR, DOE
proposes to specify that any represented
value of airflow (CFM) at high speed,
including the value used to determine
whether a ceiling fan is a highlydecorative ceiling fan, is determined
pursuant to 10 CFR 429.32(a)(2)(i) and
rounded to the nearest CFM.
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measurement to be rounded to the
nearest 0.01 in. This effectively would
provide a tolerance range of
approximately 0.01 in.
DOE requests comment on the
proposed instrument measurement
resolution, rounding and tolerance
requirements for blade edge thickness
measurements.
3. Blade RPM Tolerance
For LDCFs, section 3.5(2) of appendix
U specifies that when testing at 40
percent speed for ceiling fans that can
operate over an infinite number of
speeds, ensure the average measured
RPM is within the greater of 1% of the
average RPM at high speed or 1 RPM.
Appendix U does not prescribe a
tolerance for measuring RPM of the high
speed itself. In the September 2019
NOPR, DOE proposed to extend these
tolerances to high speed for all ceiling
fans, and to consider the represented
blade RPM at high speed to be valid if
the measurement(s) (either the
measured value for a single unit, or the
mean of the measured values for a
multiple unit sample, rounded to the
nearest RPM) are within the greater of
1% or 1 RPM of the represented blade
RPM at high speed. 84 FR 51440, 51451.
In response, ALA asked DOE to clarify
whether the 1 percent verification
measurement would apply only to
LDCFs. (ALA, No. 34, at p. 4) Hunter
commented that the tolerance of 1
percent is too tight because too many
variables, such as variation in voltage
and measuring equipment, exist
between laboratories for manufacturers
to be able to meet this tight tolerance.
Hunter suggested that instead, the
tolerance should be increased from ±1%
to ±3%. (Hunter No. 29 at p. 4)
In this SNOPR, DOE further
considered the appropriate tolerances
for voltage and measuring equipment
variations, recognizing that such
variation directly impacts the blade
RPM measurements. For voltage, section
3.3.1(5)(iii) of appendix U allows the
test voltage to vary by ±1% throughout
the test. For measuring equipment
variation, Appendix U does not specify
a required accuracy for tachometers
used in testing. However, the
tachometer used by several of the
participating round-robin laboratories
has an accuracy of ±0.01% of the
reading.24 Combining the voltage
variation tolerance and equipment
accuracy variation with the September
2019 NOPR proposal of 1% tolerance of
represented blade RPM at high speed
24 The data sheet for the referenced tachometer
can be found here: https://monarchserver.com/
Files/pdf/ACT3x_Datasheet_May_19.pdf.
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would result in an overall tolerance of
±2.01%. Therefore, DOE proposes to
increase the tolerance for blade RPM
measurements at high speed from ±1%
to ±2% to account for voltage variation
and equipment resolution.
DOE seeks comment on its proposal to
define a tolerance of 2% for blade RPM
measurements at high speed. If other
tolerances are recommended, DOE seeks
specific equipment and/or voltage
variation data to justify the
recommended tolerance.
4. Represented Values Within Product
Class Definitions
In the September 2019 NOPR, DOE
proposed updates to the product class
definitions in appendix U to reference
the proposed represented value
provisions to specify that the product
class for each basic model is determined
using the represented values of blade
span, blade RPM, blade edge thickness,
and the distance between the ceiling
and the lowest point on the fan blades.
84 FR 51440, 51450. In reviewing the
September 2019 NOPR proposed
updates to the definitions, DOE noted
that the definitions referenced the
incorrect regulatory text sections for the
represented values proposed in 10 CFR
429.32. As such, in this SNOPR, DOE
proposes updates to the references
within the product class definitions to
reference the appropriate represented
value regulatory text sections.
K. Test Procedure Costs, Harmonization,
and Other Topics
1. Test Procedure Costs and Impact
In this SNOPR, DOE proposes to
amend the existing test procedure for
ceiling fans by (1) including a definition
for ‘‘circulating air’’ for the purpose of
the ceiling fan definition; (2) expanding
test procedure scope to include largediameter ceiling fans with a diameter
greater than 24 feet; (3) expanding the
test procedure to high-speed belt-driven
ceiling fans and large-diameter beltdriven ceiling fans; (4) including a
provisions for measuring standby energy
consumption for large-diameter ceiling
fans; (5) amending the definition for
low-speed; (6) allowing two-arm sensor
setup; (7) requiring sensor arm to
stabilize for 30 seconds prior to rotating
sensor axes; (8) further specifying air
velocity sensor mounting position; (9)
providing instructions to measure blade
thickness; (10) clarifying test procedures
for ceiling fans with accessories; and
(11) amending product-specific
rounding and enforcement provisions
for ceiling fans to reflect the most recent
amendments to the test procedures and
energy conservation standards for
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ceiling fans. Additionally, this SNOPR
includes proposed regulatory text from
the September 2019 NOPR: (1)
Specifying that VSD ceiling fans that do
not also meet the definition of LSSD fan
are not required to be tested pursuant to
the DOE test method; (2) increasing the
tolerance for the stability criteria for the
average air velocity measurements for
LSSD and VSD ceiling fans; (3)
codifying in regulation existing
guidance on the method for calculating
several values reported on the Federal
Trade Commission (FTC) EnergyGuide
label using results from the ceiling fan
test procedures in Appendix U to
subpart B of 10 CFR part 430 and
represented values in 10 CFR part 429;
and (4) amending product-specific
represented value, rounding and
enforcement provisions. 84 FR 51440,
51442. DOE has tentatively determined
that the test procedure as proposed in
this September 2019 NOPR and as
modified by this SNOPR will not be
unduly burdensome for manufacturers
to conduct.
Further discussion of the cost impacts
of the test procedure amendments are
presented in the following paragraphs.
a. Cost Impacts for Scope
As discussed in section III.A and III.B
of this SNOPR, DOE is proposing to
define ‘‘circulating air’’ to differentiate
fans for ‘‘circulating air’’ (i.e., ceiling
fans) from other products that are not
considered to be a ceiling fan for the
purposes of the EPCA definition for
ceiling fans, and include large-diameter
ceiling fans greater than 24 feet in
diameter.
Regarding DOE’s proposal to include
a definition for ‘‘circulating air,’’ DOE
identified that certain high-speed VSD
ceiling fans with a diameter-tomaximum operating speed ratio less
than 0.06 would be excluded from the
ceiling fan scope. As discussed, VSD
ceiling fans represent less than one
percent of the total ceiling fan market.
Furthermore, the segment of VSD
ceiling fans that would be excluded
from the ceiling fan scope would
represent a portion of the less than one
percent of the market. While the
definition as proposed would likely
result in a small cost savings for VSD
ceiling fan manufacturers, DOE
conservatively did not include these de
minimis cost savings as part of the cost
impact calculations.
Regarding including within the scope
of the test procedure large-diameter
ceiling fans greater than 24 feet in
diameter, DOE is not aware of any large
diameter ceiling fans greater than 24 feet
commercially available on the market.
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DOE requests comment on the
number of ceiling fan models on the
market that are larger than 24 feet, and
the associated burden of testing any
ceiling fans larger than 24 feet to the
proposed DOE test procedure in this
SNOPR.
b. Cost Impacts for New Belt-Driven
Ceiling Fans
Based on DOE’s review of literature of
manufacturers who make HSBD and
LDBD ceiling fans, DOE identified five
manufacturers selling 17 ceiling fan
models that are currently not covered by
DOE’s ceiling fan test procedure that
would be covered by the proposed test
procedure amendments, if finalized.
Sixteen of these models fit the criteria
for HSBD ceiling fans and one model
fits the definition of LDBD ceiling fan.
Four of these models are capable of
variable speed operation while the
remaining 13 are only capable of single
speed operation. Based on third-party
lab test cost quotes to test these beltdriven ceiling fans in accordance with
AMCA 230–15, DOE estimates that it
would cost manufacturers
approximately $2,670 for a third-party
to test one unit at high speed only and
$3,165 to test one unit at both high
speed and 40 percent speed. DOE
requires at least two units be tested.
Therefore, DOE estimates it would cost
manufacturers approximately $5,340 per
basic model capable of only single
speed operation and $6,330 per basic
model for multi-speed units. Therefore,
DOE estimates that ceiling fan
manufacturers would incur a one-time
cost of approximately $94,740 to
conduct testing for the proposed
expanded scope of belt-driven ceiling
fans.
DOE requests comment on the per
model test cost estimate to test these
expanded scope belt-driven ceiling fans,
and the current estimate of the number
of manufacturers and number of models
of expanded scope belt-driven ceiling
fans currently made by ceiling fan
manufacturers.
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c. Cost Impacts for Stability Criteria
This SNOPR includes regulatory text
from the September 2019 NOPR
proposing to increase the tolerance for
the stability criteria for the average air
velocity measurements of LSSD and
VSD ceiling fans that meet the
definition of LSSD ceiling fans at low
speed. 84 FR 51440, 51446. DOE had
identified cost savings that
manufacturers would likely experience
from avoiding the need to purchase
additional and more-costly air velocity
sensors to meet the stability criteria
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required by the current test procedure.
84 FR 51440, 51453–51454.
To test ceiling fans up to 84 inches in
diameter with an air velocity sensor
every 4 inches and in all four axes could
require a manufacturer to purchase,
calibrate, and install as many as 45
upgraded sensors. In this SNOPR, DOE
estimates that this investment would be
approximately $50,000 per
manufacturer for these upgraded
sensors. DOE estimated that at least two
ceiling fan manufacturers have in-house
testing facilities that would have had to
invest in upgraded sensors to meet the
stability criteria to comply with the
current test procedure. Therefore, DOE
estimates that the industry-wide onetime avoided cost due to this proposal
would be approximately $100,000.
d. Cost Impacts for Low Speed
Definition
As discussed in section III.D of this
document, DOE is proposing to amend
the low speed definition, which is
required to test LSSD ceiling fans. DOE
estimates that this proposal would
require retesting a subset of LSSD
ceiling fans. Based on DOE review of
DOE’s Compliance Certification
Database (‘‘CCD’’), DOE identified 3,427
unique basic models of LSSD ceiling
fans. Additionally, DOE estimated that
there are 1,003 unique basic models of
LSSD ceiling fans with more than three
speed settings. DOE conservatively
estimates that approximately 10 percent
of LSSD ceiling fans with more than
three speed settings, 100 unique basic
models, would be affected by the
proposed low speed definition and
would have to be retested in active
mode using the proposed low speed
definition, if finalized. Further, DOE
estimates that the test procedure for
LSSD ceiling fans will cost $1,500 on
average per basic model active mode
test. Therefore, DOE estimates that
ceiling fan manufacturers would incur a
one-time cost of approximately
$150,000 to conduct retesting for the
proposed low speed definition.
e. Cost Impacts for Other Test Procedure
Amendments
DOE does not anticipate that the
remainder of the amendments proposed
in this SNOPR and the September 2019
NOPR would impact test costs.
The proposal to allow a two-arm
sensor setup is in addition to the singlearm and four-arm setup already allowed
in Appendix U. The proposal to require
that the sensor arm to stabilize for an
extra 30 seconds before moving axes
should allow for more accurate air
velocity measurements, resulting in less
number of repetitions to meet the
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stability requirement in section 3.3.2 (1)
of Appendix U. The proposals to specify
air velocity sensor mounting position,
measure blade thickness and testing for
ceiling fans with accessories are
clarifications.
DOE requests comment on the
specific costs and cost savings identified
regarding the proposed amendments to
the scope, stability criteria, and low
speed definition. Additionally, DOE
requests comment on any other
potential costs or costs savings not
identified that ceiling fan manufacturers
may incur as a result of the proposed
test procedure amendments.
2. Harmonization With Industry
Standards
DOE’s established practice is to adopt
relevant industry standards as DOE test
procedures unless such methodology
would be unduly burdensome to
conduct or would not produce test
results that reflect the energy efficiency,
energy use, water use (as specified in
EPCA) or estimated operating costs of
that product during a representative
average use cycle or period of use.
Section 8(c) of appendix A of 10 CFR
part 430 subpart C. In cases where the
industry standard does not meet EPCA
statutory criteria for test procedures,
DOE will make modifications through
the rulemaking process to these
standards as the DOE test procedure.
The test procedures for ceiling fans at
Appendix U incorporates by reference
ANSI/AMCA 208–18, AMCA 230–15
and IEC 62301. ANSI/AMCA 208–18
provides the calculations to determine
the CFEI for large-diameter ceiling fans.
AMCA 230–15 provides the test
methods to determine airflow (in CFM)
and power consumption (in Watts),
which are inputs to the CFEI metric
described in AMCA 208–18. IEC 62301
provides the test method for measuring
standby power for all ceiling fans. DOE
is not proposing incorporating by
reference any additional industry
standards in this SNOPR. DOE requests
comments on the benefits and burdens
of the proposed updates and additions
to industry standards referenced in the
test procedure for ceiling fans.
DOE recognizes that adopting
industry standards with modifications
imposes a burden on industry (i.e.,
manufacturers face increased costs if the
DOE modifications require different
testing equipment or facilities). DOE
seeks comment on the degree to which
the DOE test procedure should consider
and be harmonized further with the
most recent relevant industry standards
for ceiling fans and whether there are
any changes to the Federal test method
that would provide additional benefits
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4, 1993). Accordingly, this action was
not subject to review under the
Executive order by the Office of
Information and Regulatory Affairs
(‘‘OIRA’’) in OMB.
to the public. DOE also requests
comment on the benefits and burdens
of, or any other comments regarding
adopting any industry/voluntary
consensus-based or other appropriate
test procedure, without modification.
L. Compliance Date and Waivers
EPCA prescribes that, if DOE amends
a test procedure, all representations of
energy efficiency and energy use,
including those made on marketing
materials and product labels, must be
made in accordance with that amended
test procedure, beginning 180 days after
publication of such a test procedure
final rule in the Federal Register. (42
U.S.C. 6293(c)(2)) To the extent the
modified test procedure proposed in
this document is required only for the
evaluation and issuance of updated
efficiency standards, use of the modified
test procedure, if finalized, would not
be required until the implementation
date of updated standards. Section 8(e)
of appendix A 10 CFR part 430 subpart
C.
If DOE were to publish an amended
test procedure EPCA provides an
allowance for individual manufacturers
to petition DOE for an extension of the
180-day period if the manufacturer may
experience undue hardship in meeting
the deadline. (42 U.S.C. 6293(c)(3)) To
receive such an extension, petitions
must be filed with DOE no later than 60
days before the end of the 180-day
period and must detail how the
manufacturer will experience undue
hardship. (Id.)
Upon the compliance date of test
procedure provisions of an amended
test procedure, should DOE issue a such
an amendment, any waivers that had
been previously issued and are in effect
that pertain to issues addressed by such
provisions are terminated. 10 CFR
430.27(h)(3). Recipients of any such
waivers would be required to test the
products subject to the waiver according
to the amended test procedure as of the
compliance date of the amended test
procedure. The amendments proposed
in the September 2019 NOPR document
pertain to issues addressed by a waiver
granted to BAS, Case No. 2017–011. See
84 FR 51440, 51446.
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IV. Procedural Issues and Regulatory
Review
A. Review Under Executive Order 12866
The Office of Management and Budget
(‘‘OMB’’) has determined that this test
procedure proposed rulemaking does
not constitute ‘‘significant regulatory
actions’’ under section 3(f) of Executive
Order (‘‘E.O.’’) 12866, Regulatory
Planning and Review, 58 FR 51735 (Oct.
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B. Review Under the Regulatory
Flexibility Act
The Regulatory Flexibility Act (5
U.S.C. 601 et seq.) requires preparation
of an initial regulatory flexibility
analysis (‘‘IRFA’’) for any rule that by
law must be proposed for public
comment, unless the agency certifies
that the rule, if promulgated, will not
have a significant economic impact on
a substantial number of small entities.
As required by Executive Order 13272,
‘‘Proper Consideration of Small Entities
in Agency Rulemaking,’’ 67 FR 53461
(August 16, 2002), DOE published
procedures and policies on February 19,
2003, to ensure that the potential
impacts of its rules on small entities are
properly considered during the DOE
rulemaking process. 68 FR 7990. DOE
has made its procedures and policies
available on the Office of the General
Counsel’s website: https://energy.gov/
gc/office-general-counsel. DOE reviewed
this proposed rule under the provisions
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act and the
policies and procedures published on
February 19, 2003.
The following sections detail DOE’s
IRFA for this test procedure SNOPR.
1. Description of Reasons Why Action Is
Being Considered
DOE is proposing to amend the
existing DOE test procedures for ceiling
fans. DOE shall amend test procedures
with respect to any covered product, if
the Secretary determines that amended
test procedures would more accurately
produce test results which measure
energy efficiency, energy use, or
estimated annual operating cost of a
covered product during a representative
average use cycle or period of use. (42
U.S.C. 6293(b)(1)(A))
2. Objective of, and Legal Basis for, Rule
DOE is required to review existing
DOE test procedures for all covered
products every 7 years. (42 U.S.C.
6293(b)(1)(A))
3. Description and Estimate of Small
Entities Regulated
For manufacturers of ceiling fans, the
Small Business Administration (‘‘SBA’’)
has set a size threshold, which defines
those entities classified as ‘‘small
businesses’’ for the purposes of the
statute. DOE used the SBA’s small
business size standards to determine
whether any small entities would be
subject to the requirements of the rule.
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See 13 CFR part 121. The size standards
are listed by North American Industry
Classification System (‘‘NAICS’’) code
and industry description available at:
https://www.sba.gov/document/support-table-size-standards. Ceiling fan
manufacturing is classified under
NAICS code 335210, ‘‘Small Electrical
Appliance Manufacturing.’’ The SBA
sets a threshold of 1,500 employees or
less for an entity to be considered as a
small business for this category.
To estimate the number of companies
that manufacture ceiling fans covered by
this rulemaking, DOE used data from
DOE’s publicly available Compliance
Certification Database (‘‘CCD’’). DOE’s
small business search focused on
companies that sell at least one LSSD
ceiling fan model with more than three
speed settings as well small businesses
that sell HSBD or LDBD ceiling fans,
since those are the only manufacturers,
large or small, that are estimated to
incur any costs due to the proposed test
procedure amendments.
DOE identified 10 potential domestic
small businesses that manufacture at
least one LSSD ceiling fan with more
than three speed settings. These 10
potential domestic small businesses sell
approximately 325 unique LSSD ceiling
fans with more than three speed
settings. Additionally, DOE identified
four potential domestic small businesses
that manufacture HSBD or LDBD ceiling
fans. These four potential domestic
small businesses sell 15 known HSBD
ceiling fan models and one known
LDBD ceiling fan models.
4. Description and Estimate of
Compliance Requirements
In this SNOPR, DOE proposes to
amend the existing test procedure for
ceiling fans by (1) including a definition
for ‘‘circulating air’’ for the purpose of
the ceiling fan definition; (2) expanding
test procedure scope to include largediameter ceiling fans with a diameter
greater than 24 feet; (3) expanding the
test procedure to HSBD ceiling fans and
LDBD ceiling fans; (4) including a
standby metric for large-diameter ceiling
fans; (5) amending the definition for
low-speed; (6) allowing two-arm sensor
setup; (7) requiring sensor arm to
stabilize for 30 seconds prior to rotating
sensor axes; (8) detailing air velocity
sensor mounting position; (9) providing
instructions to measure blade thickness;
(10) clarifying test procedures for ceiling
fans with accessories; and (11)
amending certain product-specific
rounding and enforcement provisions.
Additionally, DOE continues to propose
the following proposals from the
September 2019 NOPR: (1) Specifying
that VSD ceiling fans that do not also
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meet the definition of LSSD fan are not
required to be tested pursuant to the
DOE test method; (2) increasing the
tolerance for the stability criteria for the
average air velocity measurements for
LSSD ceiling fans; (3) codifying
guidance for calculating several values
reported on the FTC EnergyGuide label;
and (4) amending other product-specific
represented value, rounding and
enforcement provisions.
DOE estimates that some ceiling fan
manufacturers would experience a cost
from the proposed test procedure
amendment, if finalized, due to retesting
specific LSSD ceiling fans at low speed.
Additionally, DOE estimates that some
ceiling fan manufacturers would
experience a cost savings from the
proposed test procedure amendment, if
finalized, regarding the stability criteria
for average air velocity measurements
by not having to purchase sensors.
As stated in the previous section, DOE
identified 10 potential domestic small
businesses selling approximately 325
unique LSSD ceiling fans with more
than three speed settings. DOE
previously estimated that approximately
10 percent of LSSD ceiling fan models
with more than three speed settings
would be required to re-test their
models using the proposed definition
for low-speed. Therefore, DOE estimates
that approximately 33 ceiling fan
models sold by domestic small
businesses would need to be re-tested
due to this proposed test procedure
amendment. DOE previously estimated
that it costs manufacturers
approximately $1,500 for a third-party
lab to conduct this test. Therefore, DOE
estimates that all domestic small
businesses would incur approximately
$49,500 to re-test certain LSSD ceiling
fans to the proposed low-speed
definition. DOE estimates that the
annual revenue of these 10 potential
domestic small businesses that sell at
least one LSSD ceiling fan with more
than three speed settings range from
approximately $1.7 million to over $250
million, with a median value of
approximately $36 million.
Additionally, as stated in the previous
section, DOE identified four potential
domestic small businesses selling 15
HSBD ceiling fan models, four of which
are capable of variable speed operation,
and one LDBD ceiling fan models. DOE
estimates that the test procedure for
belt-driven ceiling fans would cost
manufacturers approximately $5,340 per
basic model capable of only single
speed operation and $6,330 per basic
model for multi-speed units to test in
accordance to this proposed test
procedure, if finalized. Therefore, DOE
estimates that domestic small
businesses would incur a one-time cost
of approximately $89,400 to conduct
testing for the proposed expanded scope
of belt-driven ceiling fan. DOE estimates
that the annual revenue of these four
potential domestic small businesses that
sell at least one HSBD or LDBD ceiling
fan range from approximately $79,000 to
$16 million.
DOE presents the estimated testing
costs and annual revenue for each
potential small business in Table IV.1.
TABLE IV.1—ESTIMATED TESTING COSTS AND ANNUAL REVENUE FOR EACH SMALL BUSINESS
Number of
belt-driven
ceiling fan
models
Company
Small
Small
Small
Small
Business
Business
Business
Business
1
2
3
4
.............................................................................................
.............................................................................................
.............................................................................................
.............................................................................................
DOE requests comment on the
number of potential small businesses
DOE identified; the number of ceiling
fan models estimated to be
manufactured by these potential small
businesses; and the per-model testing
costs DOE estimated small businesses
may incur to test these identified ceiling
fans. Additionally, DOE also requests
comment on any other potential costs
small businesses may incur due to the
proposed amended test procedures, if
finalized.
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5. Duplication, Overlap, and Conflict
With Other Rules and Regulations
DOE is not aware of any rules or
regulations that duplicate, overlap, or
conflict with the proposed rule being
considered today.
6. Significant Alternatives to the Rule
As previously stated in this section,
DOE is required to review existing DOE
test procedures for all covered products
every 7 years. Additionally, DOE shall
amend test procedures with respect to
any covered product, if the Secretary
determines that amended test
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Estimated
testing cost
9
5
1
1
procedures would more accurately
produce test results which measure
energy efficiency, energy use, or
estimated annual operating cost of a
covered product during a representative
average use cycle or period of use. (42
U.S.C. 6293(b)(1)(A)) DOE has initially
determined that the proposed test
procedure amendments for ceiling fans
would more accurately produce test
results to measure the energy efficiency
of ceiling fans.
While DOE recognizes that requiring
that ceiling fan manufacturers to retest
specific LSSD ceiling fans at low speed
and expanding the scope of ceiling fans
would cause manufacturers to re-test or
test some ceiling fan models, the costs
to re-test and test these models are
inexpensive for most ceiling fan
manufacturers. DOE has tentatively
determined that there are no better
alternatives than the proposed amended
test procedures, in terms of both
meeting the agency’s objectives to
accurately measure energy efficiency
and reduce burden on manufacturers.
Therefore, DOE is proposing to amend
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$48,060
28,680
6,330
6,330
Estimated
annual
revenue
Testing costs
as a percent
of annual
revenue
$16,000,000
79,000
1,500,000
97,000
0.3
36.3
0.4
6.5
the existing DOE test procedure for
ceiling fans, as proposed in this SNOPR.
Additional compliance flexibilities
may be available through other means.
EPCA provides that a manufacturer
whose annual gross revenue from all of
its operations does not exceed $8
million for the 12-month period
preceding the date of the application
may apply for an exemption from all or
part of an energy conservation standard
for a period not longer than 24 months
after the effective date of a final rule
establishing the standard. (42 U.S.C.
6295(t)) Additionally, manufacturers
subject to DOE’s energy efficiency
standards may apply to DOE’s Office of
Hearings and Appeals for exception
relief under certain circumstances.
Manufacturers should refer to 10 CFR
part 430, subpart E, and 10 CFR part
1003 for additional details on these
additional compliance flexibilities.
C. Review Under the Paperwork
Reduction Act of 1995
Manufacturers of ceiling fans must
certify to DOE that their products
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comply with any applicable energy
conservation standards. To certify
compliance, manufacturers must first
obtain test data for their products
according to the DOE test procedures,
including any amendments adopted for
those test procedures. DOE has
established regulations for the
certification and recordkeeping
requirements for all covered consumer
products and commercial equipment,
including ceiling fans. (See generally 10
CFR part 429.) The collection-ofinformation requirement for the
certification and recordkeeping is
subject to review and approval by OMB
under the Paperwork Reduction Act
(‘‘PRA’’). DOE’s current reporting
requirements have been approved by
OMB under OMB control number 1910–
1400. Public reporting burden for the
certification is estimated to average 35
hours per response, including the time
for reviewing instructions, searching
existing data sources, gathering and
maintaining the data needed, certifying
compliance, and completing and
reviewing the collection of information.
Notwithstanding any other provision
of the law, no person is required to
respond to, nor shall any person be
subject to a penalty for failure to comply
with, a collection of information subject
to the requirements of the PRA, unless
that collection of information displays a
currently valid OMB Control Number.
1. Description of the Requirements
In this SNOPR, DOE is proposing to
expand the scope of the test procedure
to include LDCFs with a diameter
greater than 24 feet. If DOE amends the
test procedures scope as proposed in
this SNOPR, manufacturers of ceilings
fans with a diameter greater than 24 feet
will be required to certify compliance
with energy conservation standards (in
10 CFR 430.32(s)(2)(ii)) beginning 180
days after publication of a test
procedure final rule in the Federal
Register. (42 U.S.C. 6293(c)(2)) DOE is
proposing to revise the collection of
information approval under OMB
Control Number 1910–1400 to account
for the paperwork burden associated
with the expanded scope of LDCFs with
a diameter greater than 24 feet,
including the time for reviewing
instructions, searching existing data
sources, gathering and maintaining the
data needed, certifying compliance, and
completing and reviewing the collection
of information.
2. Method of Collection
DOE is proposing that respondents
must submit electronic forms using
DOE’s online Compliance Certification
Management System (‘‘CCMS’’). DOE’s
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CCMS is publicly accessible at
www.regulations.doe.gov/ccms/, and
includes instructions for users,
registration forms, and the productspecific reporting templates required for
use when submitting information to
CCMS.
3. Data
The following are DOE estimates of
the total annual reporting and
recordkeeping burden imposed on
manufacturers of LDCFs with a diameter
greater than 24 feet subject to the
amended certification reporting
requirements in this proposed rule. DOE
has reviewed the market for ceiling fans
with a diameter greater than 24 feet and
has identified 4 models currently being
offered for sale by 2 manufacturers, both
of which already certify compliance
with the current energy conservation
standards for ceiling fans. As a result of
this market assessment, DOE did not
find any new or additional respondents
that would be required submit
information as a result of the proposed
expansion of scope for LDCFs.
The addition of four basic models to
certification reports will simply expand
their current CCMS excel templates by
a row per basic model, which is trivial
compared to the total number of ceiling
fans they are already submitting.
OMB Control Number: 1910–1400.
Form Number: DOE F 220.7.
Type of Review: Regular submission.
Affected Public: Domestic
manufacturers and importers of LDCFs
with a diameter greater than 24 feet.
Estimated Number of Respondents: 0
(already submitting under current
approval).
Estimated Time per Response: 0
(already submitting under current
approval).
Estimated Total Annual Burden
Hours: 0.
Estimated Total Annual Cost to the
Manufacturers: $0 in recordkeeping/
reporting costs.
4. Conclusion
DOE has tentatively determined that
these proposed amendments would not
impose additional costs for
manufacturers of ceiling fans because
manufacturers of these products or
equipment are already submitting
certification reports to DOE and should
have readily available the information
that DOE would collect if the proposed
expansion of scope is finalized as part
of this rulemaking. Public comment is
sought on the number of respondents
and burden requirements for collecting
information for LDCFs with a diameter
greater than 24 feet. Send comments on
these or any other aspects of the
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collection of information to the email
address listed in the ADDRESSES section
and to the OMB Desk Officer by email
to Sofie.E.Miller@omp.eop.gov.
D. Review Under the National
Environmental Policy Act of 1969
DOE is analyzing this proposed
regulation in accordance with the
National Environmental Policy Act of
1969 (‘‘NEPA’’) and DOE’s NEPA
implementing regulations (10 CFR part
1021). DOE’s regulations include a
categorical exclusion for rulemakings
interpreting or amending an existing
rule or regulation that does not change
the environmental effect of the rule or
regulation being amended. 10 CFR part
1021, subpart D, appendix A5. DOE
anticipates that this rulemaking
qualifies for categorical exclusion A5
because it is an interpretive rulemaking
that does not change the environmental
effect of the rule and otherwise meets
the requirements for application of a
categorical exclusion. See 10 CFR
1021.410. DOE will complete its NEPA
review before issuing the final rule.
E. Review Under Executive Order 13132
Executive Order 13132, ‘‘Federalism,’’
64 FR 43255 (Aug. 4, 1999) imposes
certain requirements on agencies
formulating and implementing policies
or regulations that preempt State law or
that have federalism implications. The
Executive order requires agencies to
examine the constitutional and statutory
authority supporting any action that
would limit the policymaking discretion
of the States and to carefully assess the
necessity for such actions. The
Executive order also requires agencies to
have an accountable process to ensure
meaningful and timely input by State
and local officials in the development of
regulatory policies that have federalism
implications. On March 14, 2000, DOE
published a statement of policy
describing the intergovernmental
consultation process it will follow in the
development of such regulations. 65 FR
13735. DOE has examined this proposed
rule and has determined that it would
not have a substantial direct effect on
the States, on the relationship between
the national government and the States,
or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government. EPCA governs and
prescribes Federal preemption of State
regulations as to energy conservation for
the products that are the subject of this
proposed rule. States can petition DOE
for exemption from such preemption to
the extent, and based on criteria, set
forth in EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6297(d)) No
further action is required by Executive
Order 13132.
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F. Review Under Executive Order 12988
Regarding the review of existing
regulations and the promulgation of
new regulations, section 3(a) of
Executive Order 12988, ‘‘Civil Justice
Reform,’’ 61 FR 4729 (Feb. 7, 1996),
imposes on Federal agencies the general
duty to adhere to the following
requirements: (1) Eliminate drafting
errors and ambiguity, (2) write
regulations to minimize litigation, (3)
provide a clear legal standard for
affected conduct rather than a general
standard, and (4) promote simplification
and burden reduction. Section 3(b) of
Executive Order 12988 specifically
requires that executive agencies make
every reasonable effort to ensure that the
regulation (1) clearly specifies the
preemptive effect, if any, (2) clearly
specifies any effect on existing Federal
law or regulation, (3) provides a clear
legal standard for affected conduct
while promoting simplification and
burden reduction, (4) specifies the
retroactive effect, if any, (5) adequately
defines key terms, and (6) addresses
other important issues affecting clarity
and general draftsmanship under any
guidelines issued by the Attorney
General. Section 3(c) of Executive Order
12988 requires executive agencies to
review regulations in light of applicable
standards in sections 3(a) and 3(b) to
determine whether they are met or it is
unreasonable to meet one or more of
them. DOE has completed the required
review and determined that, to the
extent permitted by law, the proposed
rule meets the relevant standards of
Executive Order 12988.
G. Review Under the Unfunded
Mandates Reform Act of 1995
Title II of the Unfunded Mandates
Reform Act of 1995 (‘‘UMRA’’) requires
each Federal agency to assess the effects
of Federal regulatory actions on State,
local, and Tribal governments and the
private sector. Public Law 104–4, sec.
201 (codified at 2 U.S.C. 1531). For a
proposed regulatory action likely to
result in a rule that may cause the
expenditure by State, local, and Tribal
governments, in the aggregate, or by the
private sector of $100 million or more
in any one year (adjusted annually for
inflation), section 202 of UMRA requires
a Federal agency to publish a written
statement that estimates the resulting
costs, benefits, and other effects on the
national economy. (2 U.S.C. 1532(a), (b))
The UMRA also requires a Federal
agency to develop an effective process
to permit timely input by elected
officers of State, local, and Tribal
governments on a proposed ‘‘significant
intergovernmental mandate,’’ and
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requires an agency plan for giving notice
and opportunity for timely input to
potentially affected small governments
before establishing any requirements
that might significantly or uniquely
affect small governments. On March 18,
1997, DOE published a statement of
policy on its process for
intergovernmental consultation under
UMRA. 62 FR 12820; also available at
https://energy.gov/gc/office-generalcounsel. DOE examined this proposed
rule according to UMRA and its
statement of policy and determined that
the rule contains neither an
intergovernmental mandate, nor a
mandate that may result in the
expenditure of $100 million or more in
any year, so these requirements do not
apply.
H. Review Under the Treasury and
General Government Appropriations
Act, 1999
Section 654 of the Treasury and
General Government Appropriations
Act, 1999 (Pub. L. 105–277) requires
Federal agencies to issue a Family
Policymaking Assessment for any rule
that may affect family well-being. This
proposed rule would not have any
impact on the autonomy or integrity of
the family as an institution.
Accordingly, DOE has concluded that it
is not necessary to prepare a Family
Policymaking Assessment.
I. Review Under Treasury and General
Government Appropriations Act, 2001
Section 515 of the Treasury and
General Government Appropriations
Act, 2001 (44 U.S.C. 3516 note) provides
for agencies to review most
disseminations of information to the
public under guidelines established by
each agency pursuant to general
guidelines issued by OMB. OMB’s
guidelines were published at 67 FR
8452 (Feb. 22, 2002), and DOE’s
guidelines were published at 67 FR
62446 (Oct. 7, 2002). DOE has reviewed
this proposed rule under the OMB and
DOE guidelines and has concluded that
it is consistent with applicable policies
in those guidelines.
J. Review Under Executive Order 12630
DOE has determined, under Executive
Order 12630, ‘‘Governmental Actions
and Interference with Constitutionally
Protected Property Rights’’ 53 FR 8859
(March 18, 1988), that this proposed
regulation would not result in any
takings that might require compensation
under the Fifth Amendment to the U.S.
Constitution.
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K. Review Under Executive Order 13211
Executive Order 13211, ‘‘Actions
Concerning Regulations That
Significantly Affect Energy Supply,
Distribution, or Use,’’ 66 FR 28355 (May
22, 2001), requires Federal agencies to
prepare and submit to OMB, a
Statement of Energy Effects for any
proposed significant energy action. A
‘‘significant energy action’’ is defined as
any action by an agency that
promulgated or is expected to lead to
promulgation of a final rule, and that (1)
is a significant regulatory action under
Executive Order 12866, or any successor
order; and (2) is likely to have a
significant adverse effect on the supply,
distribution, or use of energy; or (3) is
designated by the Administrator of
OIRA as a significant energy action. For
any proposed significant energy action,
the agency must give a detailed
statement of any adverse effects on
energy supply, distribution, or use
should the proposal be implemented,
and of reasonable alternatives to the
action and their expected benefits on
energy supply, distribution, and use.
The proposed regulatory action to
amend the test procedure for measuring
the energy efficiency of ceiling fans is
not a significant regulatory action under
Executive Order 12866. Moreover, it
would not have a significant adverse
effect on the supply, distribution, or use
of energy, nor has it been designated as
a significant energy action by the
Administrator of OIRA. Therefore, it is
not a significant energy action, and
accordingly, DOE has not prepared a
Statement of Energy Effects.
L. Review Under Section 32 of the
Federal Energy Administration Act of
1974
Under section 301 of the Department
of Energy Organization Act (Pub. L. 95–
91; 42 U.S.C. 7101), DOE must comply
with section 32 of the Federal Energy
Administration Act of 1974, as amended
by the Federal Energy Administration
Authorization Act of 1977. (15 U.S.C.
788; ‘‘FEAA’’) Section 32 essentially
provides in relevant part that, where a
proposed rule authorizes or requires use
of commercial standards, the notice of
proposed rulemaking must inform the
public of the use and background of
such standards. In addition, section
32(c) requires DOE to consult with the
Attorney General and the Chairman of
the Federal Trade Commission (‘‘FTC’’)
concerning the impact of the
commercial or industry standards on
competition.
DOE is not proposing any new
incorporations by reference of
commercial standards in this SNOPR.
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 232 / Tuesday, December 7, 2021 / Proposed Rules
The proposed modifications to the test
procedure for ceiling fans would not
incorporate any new testing methods.
M. Description of Materials
Incorporated by Reference
The Director of the Federal Register
previously approved the following
standards from the Air Movement and
Control Association International, Inc.
(AMCA), for incorporation by reference
into appendix U to subpart B: ANSI/
AMCA Standard 208–18, (‘‘AMCA 208–
18’’), Calculation of the Fan Energy
Index, and ANSI/AMCA Standard 230–
15 (‘‘AMCA 230–15’’), ‘‘Laboratory
Methods of Testing Air Circulating Fans
for Rating and Certification.’’
V. Public Participation
A. Participation in the Webinar
The time and date of the webinar are
listed in the DATES section at the
beginning of this document. If no
participants register for the webinar, it
will be cancelled. Webinar registration
information, participant instructions,
and information about the capabilities
available to webinar participants will be
published on DOE’s website:
www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/
appliance_standards/
standards.aspx?productid=5.
Participants are responsible for ensuring
their systems are compatible with the
webinar software.
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B. Submission of Comments
DOE will accept comments, data, and
information regarding this proposed
rule no later than the date provided in
the DATES section at the beginning of
this proposed rule. Interested parties
may submit comments using any of the
methods described in the ADDRESSES
section at the beginning of this
document.
Submitting comments via
www.regulations.gov. The
www.regulations.gov web page will
require you to provide your name and
contact information. Your contact
information will be viewable to DOE
Building Technologies staff only. Your
contact information will not be publicly
viewable except for your first and last
names, organization name (if any), and
submitter representative name (if any).
If your comment is not processed
properly because of technical
difficulties, DOE will use this
information to contact you. If DOE
cannot read your comment due to
technical difficulties and cannot contact
you for clarification, DOE may not be
able to consider your comment.
However, your contact information
will be publicly viewable if you include
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it in the comment or in any documents
attached to your comment. Any
information that you do not want to be
publicly viewable should not be
included in your comment, nor in any
document attached to your comment.
Persons viewing comments will see only
first and last names, organization
names, correspondence containing
comments, and any documents
submitted with the comments.
Do not submit to www.regulations.gov
information for which disclosure is
restricted by statute, such as trade
secrets and commercial or financial
information (hereinafter referred to as
Confidential Business Information
(‘‘CBI’’)). Comments submitted through
www.regulations.gov cannot be claimed
as CBI. Comments received through the
website will waive any CBI claims for
the information submitted. For
information on submitting CBI, see the
Confidential Business Information
section.
DOE processes submissions made
through www.regulations.gov before
posting. Normally, comments will be
posted within a few days of being
submitted. However, if large volumes of
comments are being processed
simultaneously, your comment may not
be viewable for up to several weeks.
Please keep the comment tracking
number that www.regulations.gov
provides after you have successfully
uploaded your comment.
Submitting comments via email.
Comments and documents submitted
via email will be posted to
www.regulations.gov. If you do not want
your personal contact information to be
publicly viewable, do not include it in
your comment or any accompanying
documents. Instead, provide your
contact information on a cover letter.
Include your first and last names, email
address, telephone number, and
optional mailing address. The cover
letter will not be publicly viewable as
long as it does not include any
comments
Include contact information each time
you submit comments, data, documents,
and other information to DOE. No
telefacsimiles (faxes) will be accepted.
Comments, data, and other
information submitted to DOE
electronically should be provided in
PDF (preferred), Microsoft Word or
Excel, WordPerfect, or text (ASCII) file
format. Provide documents that are not
secured, written in English and free of
any defects or viruses. Documents
should not contain special characters or
any form of encryption and, if possible,
they should carry the electronic
signature of the author.
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Campaign form letters. Please submit
campaign form letters by the originating
organization in batches of between 50 to
500 form letters per PDF or as one form
letter with a list of supporters’ names
compiled into one or more PDFs. This
reduces comment processing and
posting time.
Confidential Business Information.
Pursuant to 10 CFR 1004.11, any person
submitting information that he or she
believes to be confidential and exempt
by law from public disclosure should
submit via email, postal mail, or hand
delivery/courier two well-marked
copies: One copy of the document
marked confidential including all the
information believed to be confidential,
and one copy of the document marked
non-confidential with the information
believed to be confidential deleted.
Submit these documents via email or on
a CD, if feasible. DOE will make its own
determination about the confidential
status of the information and treat it
according to its determination.
It is DOE’s policy that all comments
may be included in the public docket,
without change and as received,
including any personal information
provided in the comments (except
information deemed to be exempt from
public disclosure).
C. Issues on Which DOE Seeks
Comment
Although DOE welcomes comments
on any aspect of this proposal, DOE is
particularly interested in receiving
comments and views of interested
parties concerning the following issues:
(1) DOE seeks comment on the proposed
definition of ‘‘circulating air’’ for the purpose
of the ceiling fan definition. Specifically,
DOE requests comment on the use of a
‘‘diameter-to-maximum operating speed’’
ratio to distinguish fans with circulating
airflow from directional airflow, and the
appropriateness of using 0.06 in/RPM as the
threshold ratio. If another ratio should be
considered, DOE requests additional data to
corroborate that ratio.
(2) DOE seeks comment on the
characterization of fans that would fall below
the 0.06 in/RPM threshold ratio, such as
certain high-speed VSD ceiling fans that do
not also meet the definition of an LSSD fan.
Specifically, DOE request comment on the
appropriateness of excluding high-speed VSD
ceiling fans from scope of ‘‘ceiling fans.’’
(3) DOE seeks comment regarding whether
‘‘circulating air’’ should be defined within
the definition of ceiling fan at 10 CFR 430.2,
as DOE has proposed, or if ‘‘circulating air’’
should be defined separately within
appendix U.
(4) DOE seeks comment on its proposal to
remove the 24-foot blade span limit in
section 3.4.1 of appendix U, which would
expand the scope of the test procedure for
LDCFs to ceiling fans with blade span larger
than 24 feet.
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(5) DOE seeks comment on including
within the test procedure scope HSBD ceiling
fans, the proposed term and definition, and
the appropriate tip speed threshold.
Furthermore, DOE requests data on blade
thickness and tip speeds for these HSBD
ceiling fans.
(6) DOE seeks comment on the alternate
definition for HSBD ceiling fans, and
whether it would incorporate all the LDBD
ceiling fans from DOE’s primary proposal.
Further, DOE requests comment on whether
the HSBD and LDBD ceiling fan scope should
be combined, i.e., what is the utility and
application of the two fan categories.
(7) DOE requests comment on requiring
AMCA 230–15 as the test procedure for
HSBD and LDBD ceiling fans, or whether
DOE should consider any other test
procedure.
(8) DOE requests comment on its proposal
to test single speed HSBD and LDBD only at
high speed and variable speed HSBD and
LDBD at high speed and 40 percent speed.
Alternatively, DOE requests comment the
typical number of operating speeds and
hours for HSBD ceiling fans and LDBD
ceiling fans.
(9) DOE requests comment on whether the
efficiency of HDBD fans and LDBD ceiling
fans is more appropriately evaluated using
the CFEI or CFM/W metric.
(10) DOE seeks comment on its preliminary
determination that establishing an integrated
metric that incorporates the energy efficiency
measured as required under each LCDF
standard and the energy use measured during
standby mode would be technically
infeasible.
(11) DOE seeks comment on its proposal to
specify for LDCFs a separate standby mode
energy use metric, which would be based on
the standby power procedure defined in
section 3.6 of appendix U.
(12) DOE seeks comment on its proposal to
specify for HSBD ceiling fans and LDBD
ceiling fans a separate standby mode energy
use metric, which would be based on the
standby power procedure defined in section
3.6 of appendix U.
(13) DOE seeks comment on the proposal
to update the low speed definition as follows:
Low speed means the lowest available ceiling
fan speed for which fewer than half or three,
whichever is fewer, sensors per individual
axis are measuring less than 40 feet per
minute.
(14) DOE also seeks comment on the
alternate proposal to represent low speed as
a table specifying the number of sensors per
individual axis required to measure greater
than 40 feet per minute.
(15) DOE seeks comment on the proposal
to require testing to start at the lowest speed
and move to the next highest speed until the
modified low speed criteria are met.
Specifically, DOE seeks comment on whether
any applicable variable speed LSSD ceiling
fans (without distinct speed settings) would
require further specificity on this proposal
and if so, how it should be specified.
(16) DOE requests comment on the extent
to which, for DOE certification purposes, an
individual unit within a sample of fans (per
basic model) could have a different setting
that meets the proposed definition of low
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speed than other units within the same
sample. If so, DOE requests data on how the
issue could affect representativeness (in
terms of ceiling fan efficiency) of the basic
model.
(17) DOE seeks comment on the proposed
requirement to add 30 seconds between test
runs for a rotating arm setup (either singlearm or two-arm).
(18) DOE seeks comment on its proposal to
permit the use of a two-arm setup, as well as
any data to confirm that a 2-arm option
produces comparable results to the existing
1-arm and 4-arm options.
(19) DOE requests comment on its proposal
to specify aligning the air velocity sensors
perpendicular to the airflow. DOE also
requests comment on whether it should
revise Figure 2 of appendix U, and/or
provide an additional figure, to depict more
clearly the alignment of the velocity sensors
perpendicular to the direction of airflow.
(20) DOE seeks comment on its proposal to
measure ceiling fan blade thickness at the
thickest point within 1″ of the blade’s leading
edge, along the plane perpendicular to the
blade’s radial length at which the blade is
thinnest. Specifically, DOE seeks feedback on
if this update will prevent ceiling fans from
being incorrectly classified into the wrong
product class. DOE also welcomes feedback
on if the blade thickness should be measured
within 1″ of the leading edge, or if the
allowable thickness measurement zone
should be restricted to closer to the leading
edge (e.g., within 1⁄2″ or 1⁄4″ of the leading
edge).
(21) DOE seeks comment on its proposal to
require that testing be performed without any
additional accessories or features energized,
if possible; and if not, with the additional
accessories or features set at the lowest
energy-consuming mode for testing.
(22) DOE seeks comment on its proposal to
specify that any represented value of airflow
(CFM) at high speed, including the value
used to determine whether a ceiling fan is a
highly-decorative ceiling fan, is determined
pursuant to 10 CFR 429.32(a)(2)(i) and
rounded to the nearest CFM.
(23) DOE requests comment on the
proposed instrument measurement
resolution, rounding and tolerance
requirements for blade edge thickness
measurements.
(24) DOE seeks comment on its proposal to
define a tolerance of 2% for blade RPM
measurements at high speed. If other
tolerances are recommended, DOE seeks
specific equipment and/or voltage variation
data to justify the recommended tolerance.
(25) DOE requests comment on the number
of ceiling fan models on the market that are
larger than 24 feet, and the associated burden
of testing any ceiling fans larger than 24 feet
to the proposed DOE test procedure in this
SNOPR.
(26) DOE requests comment on the per
model test cost estimate to test these
expanded scope belt-driven ceiling fans, and
the current estimate of the number of
manufacturers and number of models of
expanded scope belt-driven ceiling fans
currently made by ceiling fan manufacturers.
(27) DOE requests comment on the specific
costs and cost savings identified regarding
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69565
the proposed amendments to the scope,
stability criteria, and low speed definition.
Additionally, DOE requests comment on any
other potential costs or costs savings not
identified that ceiling fan manufacturers may
incur as a result of the proposed test
procedure amendments.
(28) DOE requests comment on the number
of potential small businesses DOE identified;
the number of ceiling fan models estimated
to be manufactured by these potential small
businesses; and the per-model testing costs
DOE estimated small businesses may incur to
test these identified ceiling fans.
Additionally, DOE also requests comment on
any other potential costs small businesses
may incur due to the proposed amended test
procedures, if finalized.
(29) DOE requests comment on the number
of respondents and burden requirements for
collecting information for LDCFs with a
diameter greater than 24 feet.
VI. Approval of the Office of the
Secretary
The Secretary of Energy has approved
publication of this supplemental notice
of proposed rulemaking.
List of Subjects
10 CFR Part 429
Administrative practice and
procedure, Confidential business
information, Energy conservation,
Household appliances, Reporting and
recordkeeping requirements.
10 CFR Part 430
Administrative practice and
procedure, Confidential business
information, Energy conservation,
Household appliances, Imports,
Incorporation by reference,
Intergovernmental relations, Small
businesses.
Signing Authority
This document of the Department of
Energy was signed on November 16,
2021, by Kelly Speakes-Backman,
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary
and Acting Assistant Secretary for
Energy Efficiency and Renewable
Energy, pursuant to delegated authority
from the Secretary of Energy. That
document with the original signature
and date is maintained by DOE. For
administrative purposes only, and in
compliance with requirements of the
Office of the Federal Register, the
undersigned DOE Federal Register
Liaison Officer has been authorized to
sign and submit the document in
electronic format for publication, as an
official document of the Department of
Energy. This administrative process in
no way alters the legal effect of this
document upon publication in the
Federal Register.
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 232 / Tuesday, December 7, 2021 / Proposed Rules
Signed in Washington, DC, on November
17, 2021.
Treena V. Garrett,
Federal Register Liaison Officer, U.S.
Department of Energy.
PART 429—CERTIFICATION,
COMPLIANCE, AND ENFORCEMENT
FOR CONSUMER PRODUCTS AND
COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL
EQUIPMENT
For the reasons stated in the
preamble, DOE proposes to amend parts
429 and 430 of chapter II of title 10,
Code of Federal Regulations as set forth
below:
■
And x is the sample mean; s is the sample
standard deviation; n is the number of
samples; and t0.95 is the t statistic for a
95% one-tailed confidence interval with
n-1 degrees of freedom (from appendix A
to this subpart); and
(3) For each basic model of ceiling fan,
(i) Any represented value of blade span, as
defined in section 1.4 of appendix U to
subpart B of part 430, is the mean of the
blade spans measured for the sample selected
as described in paragraph (a)(1) of this
section, rounded to the nearest inch; and
(ii) Any represented value of blade
revolutions per minute (RPM) is the mean of
the blade RPM measurements measured for
the sample selected as described in
paragraph (a)(1) of this section, rounded to
the nearest RPM; and
(iii) Any represented value of blade edge
thickness is the mean of the blade edge
thicknesses measured for the sample selected
as described in paragraph (a)(1) of this
section, rounded to the nearest 0.01 inch; and
(iv) Any represented value of the distance
between the ceiling and the lowest point on
the fan blades is the mean of the distances
measured for the sample selected as
described in paragraph (a)(1) of this section,
rounded to the nearest quarter of an inch;
and
(v) Any represented value of tip speed is
pi multiplied by represented value of blade
span divided by twelve multiplied by the
represented value of RPM, rounded to the
nearest foot per minute;
(vi) Any represented value of airflow
(CFM) at high speed, including the value
1. The authority citation for part 429
continues to read as follows:
Authority: 42 U.S.C. 6291–6317; 28 U.S.C.
2461 note.
2. Section 429.32 is amended by:
a. Revising the introductory text in
paragraph (a)(2);
■ b. Revising paragraph (a)(2)(ii)(B); and
■ c. Adding paragraphs (a)(3) and (4);
■
■
AirflowFTc
= CFMiow X
3.0
+
The revisions and additions read as
follows:
§ 429.32
Ceiling fans.
(a) * * *
(2) For each basic model of ceiling
fan, a sample of sufficient size must be
randomly selected and tested to ensure
that—
*
*
*
*
*
(ii) * * *
(B) The upper 95 percent confidence
limit (UCL) of the true mean divided by
1.1, where:
used to determine whether a ceiling fan is a
highly-decorative ceiling fan as defined in
section 1.9 of appendix U to subpart B of part
430, is determined pursuant to paragraph
(a)(2)(i) and rounded to the nearest CFM; and
(4) To determine values required by the
Federal Trade Commission (FTC), use the
following provisions. Note that, for multimount ceiling fans these values must be
reported on the EnergyGuide label for the
ceiling fan configuration with the lowest
efficiency.
(i) FTC Airflow. Determine the
represented value for FTC airflow by
calculating the weighted-average airflow
of an LSSD or VSD ceiling fan basic
model at low and high fan speed as
follows:
CFMHigh X 3.4
6.4
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Where:
Energy UseFTC= represented value for FTC
Energy Use, rounded to the nearest watt,
WLow = represented value of measured power
consumption, in watts, at low fan speed,
pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)(ii) of this
section,
EYECFTC
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WHigh = represented value of measured power
consumption, in watts, at high fan speed,
pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)(ii) of this
section, and
Wsb = represented value of measured power
consumption, in watts, in standby mode,
pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)(ii) of this
section.
(iii) FTC Estimated Yearly Energy
Cost. Determine the represented value
for FTC estimated yearly energy cost of
an LSSD or VSD ceiling fan basic model
at low and high fan speed as follows:
= Wiow X 3.0 + WHigh
X 3.4 + Wsb X 17.6
1000
X 365 X 0.12
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EP07DE21.006</GPH>
= Wiow X 3.o + Wmgh X 3.4 + Wsb X 17.6
EP07DE21.005</GPH>
Energy Useprc
(ii) FTC Energy Use. Determine
represented value for FTC energy use by
calculating the weighted-average power
consumption of an LSSD or VSD ceiling
fan basic model at low and high fan
speed as follows:
EP07DE21.004</GPH>
fan speed, pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)(i)
of this section, and
CFMHigh = represented value of measured
airflow, in cubic feet per minute, at high
fan speed, pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)(i)
of this section.
EP07DE21.003</GPH>
Where:
AirflowFTC = represented value for FTC
airflow, rounded to the nearest CFM,
CFMLow = represented value of measured
airflow, in cubic feet per minute, at low
Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 232 / Tuesday, December 7, 2021 / Proposed Rules
Where:
EYECFTC = represented value for FTC
estimated yearly energy cost, rounded to
the nearest dollar, and
WLow = represented value of measured power
consumption, in watts, at low fan speed,
pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)(ii) of this
section,
WHigh = represented value of measured power
consumption, in watts, at high fan speed,
pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)(ii) of this
section, and
Wsb = represented value of measured power
consumption, in watts, in standby mode,
pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)(ii) of this
section.
*
*
*
*
*
3. Section 429.134 is amended by
adding paragraph (s) to read as follows:
■
§ 429.134 Product-specific enforcement
provisions.
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*
*
*
*
*
(s) Ceiling Fans—(1) Verification of
blade span. DOE will measure the blade
span and round the measurement
pursuant to the test requirements of 10
CFR part 430 of this chapter for each
unit tested. DOE will consider the
represented blade span valid only if the
rounded measurement(s) (either the
rounded measured value for a single
unit, or the mean of the rounded
measured values for a multiple unit
sample, rounded to the nearest inch) is
the same as the represented blade span.
(i) If DOE determines that the
represented blade span is valid, that
blade span will be used as the basis for
determining the product class and
calculating the minimum allowable
ceiling fan efficiency.
(ii) If DOE determines that the
represented blade span is invalid, DOE
will use the rounded measured blade
span(s) as the basis for determining the
product class, and calculating the
minimum allowable ceiling fan
efficiency.
(2) Verification of the distance
between the ceiling and lowest point of
fan blades. DOE will measure the
distance between the ceiling and lowest
point of the fan blades and round the
measurement pursuant to the test
requirements of 10 CFR part 430 of this
chapter for each unit tested. DOE will
consider the represented distance valid
only if the rounded measurement(s)
(either the measured value for a single
unit, or the mean of the measured
values for a multiple unit sample,
rounded to the nearest quarter inch) are
the same as the represented distance.
(i) If DOE determines that the
represented distance is valid, that
distance will be used as the basis for
determining the product class.
(ii) If DOE determines that the
represented distance is invalid, DOE
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will use the rounded measured
distance(s) as the basis for determining
the product class.
(3) Verification of blade revolutions
per minute (RPM) measured at high
speed. DOE will measure the blade RPM
at high speed pursuant to the test
requirements of 10 CFR part 430 of this
chapter for each unit tested. DOE will
consider the represented blade RPM
measured at high speed valid only if the
measurement(s) (either the measured
value for a single unit, or the mean of
the measured values for a multiple unit
sample, rounded to the nearest RPM) are
within the greater of 2% of the
represented blade RPM at high speed.
(i) If DOE determines that the
represented RPM is valid, that RPM will
be used as the basis for determining the
product class.
(ii) If DOE determines that the
represented RPM is invalid, DOE will
use the rounded measured RPM(s) as
the basis for determining the product
class.
(4) Verification of blade edge
thickness. DOE will measure the blade
edge thickness and round the
measurement pursuant to the test
requirements of 10 CFR part 430 for
each unit tested. DOE will consider the
represented blade edge thickness valid
only if the measurement(s) (either the
measured value for a single unit, or the
mean of the measured values for a
multiple unit sample, rounded to the
nearest 0.01 inch) are the same as the
represented blade edge thickness.
(i) If DOE determines that the
represented blade edge thickness is
valid, that blade edge thickness will be
used for determining product class.
(ii) If DOE determines that the
represented blade edge thickness is
invalid, DOE will use the rounded
measured blade edge thickness(es) as
the basis for determining the product
class.
(1) Circulating Air means the
discharge of air in an upward or
downward direction with the air
returning to the intake side of the fan.
A ceiling fan that has a ratio of fan blade
span (in inches) to maximum rotation
rate (in revolutions per minute) greater
than 0.06 provides circulating air.
(2) For all other ceiling fan related
definitions, see appendix U to this
subpart.
*
*
*
*
*
■ 6. Section 430.23 is amended by
revising paragraph (w) to read as
follows:
PART 430—ENERGY CONSERVATION
PROGRAM FOR CONSUMER
PRODUCTS
Appendix U to Subpart B of Part 430—
Uniform Test Method for Measuring the
Energy Consumption of Ceiling Fans
4. The authority citation for part 430
continues to read as follows:
Prior to [effective date of test procedure
final rule], manufacturers must make any
representations with respect to the energy
use or efficiency of ceiling fans as specified
in Section 2 of this appendix as it appeared
on January 23, 2017. On or after [effective
date of test procedure final rule],
manufacturers of ceiling fans, as specified in
section 2 of this appendix, must make any
representations with respect to energy use or
efficiency in accordance with the results of
testing pursuant to this appendix.
Certification of standby power consumption
for large-diameter ceiling fans is required
from the time that an energy conservation
standard on standby power consumption
requires compliance.
■
Authority: 42 U.S.C. 6291–6309; 28 U.S.C.
2461 note.
5. Section 430.2 is amended by
revising the definition of ‘‘Ceiling fan’’
to read as follows:
■
§ 430.2
Definitions.
*
*
*
*
*
Ceiling fan means a nonportable
device that is suspended from a ceiling
for circulating air via the rotation of fan
blades. For the purpose of this
definition:
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§ 430.23 Test procedures for the
measurement of energy and water
consumption.
*
*
*
*
*
(w) Ceiling fans. Measure the
following attributes of a single ceiling
fan in accordance with appendix U to
this subpart: Airflow; power
consumption; ceiling fan efficiency;
ceiling fan energy index (CFEI); standby
power; distance between the ceiling and
lowest point of fan blades; blade span;
blade edge thickness; and blade
revolutions per minute (RPM).
*
*
*
*
*
■ 7. Appendix U to subpart B of part
430 is amended by:
■ a. Revising the introductory text;
■ b. Revising sections 1.4, and 1.8
through 1.20;
■ c. Adding sections 1.21 and 1.22;
■ d. Revising sections 2, 3, 3.2.2(1),
3.2.2(4), 3.2.2(6), 3.2.3, 3.3.1(3), 3.3.1(4),
3.3.1(8), and 3.3.2;
■ e. Adding section 3.3.3;
■ f. Revising section 3.4;
■ g. Removing section 3.4.1, and
redesignating sections 3.4.2 through
3.4.4, as sections 3.4.1 through 3.4.3;
■ h. Revising sections 3.5, 3.5.1, 3.6.(1),
4, and 5;
The revisions and additions read as
follows:
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1. * * *
1.4. Blade span means the diameter of the
largest circle swept by any part of the fan
blade assembly, including attachments. The
represented value of blade span (D) is as
determined in 10 CFR 429.32.
*
*
*
*
*
1.8. High-speed small-diameter (HSSD)
ceiling fan means a small-diameter ceiling
fan that is not a very-small-diameter ceiling
fan, highly-decorative ceiling fan or beltdriven ceiling fan and that has a represented
value of blade edge thickness, as determined
in 10 CFR 429.32(a)(3)(iii), of less than 3.2
mm or a maximum represented value of tip
speed, as determined in 10 CFR
429.32(a)(3)(v), greater than the applicable
limit specified in the table in this definition.
HIGH-SPEED SMALL-DIAMETER CEILING FAN BLADE AND TIP SPEED CRITERIA
Thickness (t) of edges of blades
Tip speed threshold
Airflow direction
Mm
Downward-only ....................................................................................
Downward-only ....................................................................................
Reversible ............................................................................................
Reversible ............................................................................................
1.9. High-speed belt-driven (HSBD) ceiling
fan means a small-diameter ceiling fan that
is a belt-driven ceiling fan with one fan head,
and has tip speeds greater than or equal to
5000 feet per minute.
1.10. Highly-decorative ceiling fan means a
ceiling fan with a maximum represented
value of blade revolutions per minute (RPM),
as determined in 10 CFR 429.32(a)(3)(ii), of
90 RPM, and a represented value of airflow
at high speed, as determined in 10 CFR
429.32(a)(3)(vi), of less than 1,840 CFM.
1.11. Hugger ceiling fan means a low-speed
small-diameter ceiling fan that is not a verysmall-diameter ceiling fan, highly-decorative
ceiling fan, or belt-driven ceiling fan, and for
4.8 > t
t
4.8 > t
t
Inch
≥
≥
≥
≥
3.2
4.8
3.2
4.8
which the represented value of the distance
between the ceiling and the lowest point on
the fan blades, as determined in 10 CFR
429.32(a)(3)(iv), is less than or equal to 10
inches.
1.12. Large-diameter ceiling fan means a
ceiling fan that is not a highly-decorative
ceiling fan or belt-driven ceiling fan and has
a represented value of blade span, as
determined in 10 CFR 429.32(a)(3)(i), greater
than seven feet.
1.13. Large-diameter belt-driven (LDBD)
ceiling fan means a belt-driven ceiling fan
with one fan head that has a represented
value of blade span, as determined in 10 CFR
429.32(a)(3)(i), greater than seven feet.
⁄
3 16
⁄
3 16
feet per
minute
m/s
> t ≥ 1⁄8
t ≥ 3⁄16
> t ≥ 1⁄8
t ≥ 3⁄16
16.3
20.3
12.2
16.3
3,200
4,000
2,400
3,200
1.14. Low speed means the lowest available
ceiling fan speed for which fewer than half
or three, whichever is fewer, sensors per
individual axis are measuring less than 40
feet per minute.
1.15. Low-speed small-diameter (LSSD)
ceiling fan means a small-diameter ceiling
fan that has a represented value of blade edge
thickness, as determined in 10 CFR
429.32(a)(3)(iii), greater than or equal to 3.2
mm and a maximum represented value of tip
speed, as determined in 10 CFR
429.32(a)(3)(v), less than or equal to the
applicable limit specified in the table in this
definition.
LOW-SPEED SMALL-DIAMETER CEILING FAN BLADE AND TIP SPEED CRITERIA
Thickness (t) of edges of blades
Tip speed threshold
Airflow direction
Mm
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with PROPOSALS4
Reversible ............................................................................................
Reversible ............................................................................................
1.16. Multi-head ceiling fan means a
ceiling fan with more than one fan head, i.e.,
more than one set of rotating fan blades.
1.17. Multi-mount ceiling fan means a lowspeed small-diameter ceiling fan that can be
mounted in the configurations associated
with both the standard and hugger ceiling
fans.
1.18. Oscillating ceiling fan means a ceiling
fan containing one or more fan heads for
which the axis of rotation of the fan blades
cannot remain in a fixed position relative to
the ceiling. Such fans have no inherent
means by which to disable the oscillating
function separate from the fan blade rotation.
1.19. Small-diameter ceiling fan means a
ceiling fan that has a represented value of
blade span, as determined in 10 CFR
429.32(a)(3)(i), less than or equal to seven
feet.
1.20. Standard ceiling fan means a lowspeed small-diameter ceiling fan that is not
a very-small-diameter ceiling fan, highlydecorative ceiling fan or belt-driven ceiling
fan, and for which the represented value of
the distance between the ceiling and the
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Inch
4.8 > t ≥ 3.2
t ≥ 4.8
lowest point on the fan blades, as determined
in 10 CFR 429.32(a)(3)(iv), is greater than 10
inches.
1.21. Total airflow means the sum of the
product of airflow and hours of operation at
all tested speeds. For multi-head fans, this
includes the airflow from all fan heads.
1.22. Very-small-diameter (VSD) ceiling
fan means a small-diameter ceiling fan that
is not a highly-decorative ceiling fan or beltdriven ceiling fan; and has one or more fan
heads, each of which has a represented value
of blade span, as determined in 10 CFR
429.32(a)(3)(i), of 18 inches or less. Only VSD
fans that also meet the definition of an LSSD
fan are required to be tested for purposes of
determining compliance with energy
efficiency standards established by DOE and
for other representations of energy efficiency.
2. Scope:
The provisions in this appendix apply to
ceiling fans except:
(1) Ceiling fans where the plane of rotation
of a ceiling fan’s blades is not less than or
equal to 45 degrees from horizontal, or
cannot be adjusted based on the
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⁄
3 16
feet per
minute
m/s
> t ≥ 1⁄8
t ≥ 3⁄16
12.2
16.3
2,400
3,200
manufacturer’s specifications to be less than
or equal to 45 degrees from horizontal;
(2) Centrifugal ceiling fans;
(3) Belt-driven ceiling fans that are not
either a high-speed belt-driven ceiling fan or
a large-diameter belt-driven ceiling fan; and
(4) Oscillating ceiling fans.
3. General Instructions, Test Apparatus,
and Test Measurement:
The test apparatus and test measurement
used to determine energy performance
depend on the ceiling fan’s blade span, and
in some cases the ceiling fan’s blade edge
thickness. For each tested ceiling fan,
measure the lateral distance from the center
of the axis of rotation of the fan blades to the
furthest fan blade edge from the center of the
axis of rotation. Measure this lateral distance
at the resolution of the measurement
instrument, using an instrument with a
measurement resolution of least 0.25 inches.
Multiply the lateral distance by two and then
round to the nearest whole inch to determine
the blade span. For ceiling fans having a
blade span greater than 18 inches and less
than or equal to 84 inches, measure the
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ceiling fan’s blade edge thickness. To
measure the fan blade edge thickness, use an
instrument with a measurement resolution of
at least 0.001 inch and measure the thickness
of one fan blade’s leading edge (in the
forward direction) according to the following:
(1) Locate the cross section perpendicular
to the fan blade’s radial length that is at least
one inch from the tip of the fan blade and
for which the blade is thinnest, and
(2) Measure at the thickest point of that
cross section within one inch from the
leading edge of the fan blade.
69569
See Figure 1 of this appendix for an
instructional schematic on the fan blade edge
thickness measurement. Figure 1 depicts a
ceiling fan from above. Round the measured
blade edge thickness to the nearest 0.01 inch.
BILLING CODE 6450–01–P
(1) Cross section where the
blade is thinnest
\
i
!
l
/:-----------------
·-------
Leading edge in
forward direction
(2) Measure at thickest
point in cross section within
111 from leading edge
Figure 1 to Appendix U to Subpart B of Part 430: Measurement Criteria for Fan
Blade Edge Thickness
*
*
*
*
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3.2.2. Equipment Set-up.
(1) Make sure the transformer power is off.
Hang the ceiling fan to be tested directly from
the ceiling, according to the manufacturer’s
installation instructions. Hang all non-multimount ceiling fans in the fan configuration
that minimizes the distance between the
ceiling and the lowest point of the fan blades.
Hang and test multi-mount fans in two
configurations: The configuration associated
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the definition of a standard fan that
minimizes the distance between the ceiling
and the lowest point of the fan blades and the
configuration associated with the definition
of a hugger fan that minimizes the distance
between the ceiling and the lowest point of
the fan blades. For all tested configurations,
measure the distance between the ceiling and
the lowest point of the fan blade using an
instrument with a measurement resolution of
at least 0.25 inches. Round the measured
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distance from the ceiling to the lowest point
of the fan blade to the nearest quarter inch.
*
*
*
*
*
(4) A single rotating sensor arm, two
rotating sensor arms, or four fixed sensor
arms can be used to take air velocity
measurements along four axes, labeled A–D.
Axes A, B, C, and D are at 0, 90, 180, and
270 degree positions. Axes A–D must be
perpendicular to the four walls of the room.
See Figure 2 of this appendix.
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EP07DE21.007</GPH>
*
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AxisD
AxisC
Axis A
AxisB
Test area
Figure 2 to Appendix U to Subpart B of Part 430: Testing Room and Sensor Arm
Axes
*
*
*
*
four axes intersect, aligning the sensors
perpendicular to the direction of airflow. Do
not touch the actual sensor prior to testing.
Use enough sensors to record air delivery
*
(6) Place the sensors at intervals of 4 ±
0.0625 inches along a sensor arm, starting
with the first sensor at the point where the
within a circle 8 inches larger in diameter
than the blade span of the ceiling fan being
tested. The experimental set-up is shown in
Figure 3 of this appendix.
Ceiling Level
Lowest point
on the blades
Ceilin Fan
Unused
sensors
43"
r
---1 I- 4,,
BILLING CODE 6450–01–C
*
*
*
*
*
3.2.3. Multi-Head Ceiling Fan Test Set-Up.
Hang a multi-headed ceiling fan from the
ceiling such that one of the ceiling fan heads
is centered directly over sensor 1 (i.e., at the
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intersection of axes A, B, C, and D). The
distance between the lowest point any of the
fan blades of the centered fan head can reach
and the air velocity sensors is to be such that
it is the same as for all other small-diameter
ceiling fans (see Figure 3 of this appendix).
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If the multi-head ceiling fan has an
oscillating function (i.e., the fan heads
change their axis of rotation relative to the
ceiling) that can be switched off, switch it off
prior to taking air velocity measurements. If
any multi-head fan does not come with the
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EP07DE21.009</GPH>
Figure 3 to Appendix U to Subpart B of Part 430: Air Delivery Room Set-Up for
Small-Diameter Ceiling Fans other than High-Speed Belt-Driven Ceiling
Fans
EP07DE21.008</GPH>
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blades preinstalled, install fan blades only on
the fan head that will be directly centered
over the intersection of the sensor axes. (Even
if the fan heads in a multi-head ceiling fan
would typically oscillate when the blades are
installed on all fan heads, the ceiling fan is
subject to this test procedure if the centered
fan head does not oscillate when it is the
only fan head with the blades installed.) If
the fan blades are preinstalled on all fan
heads, measure air velocity in accordance
with section 3.3 of this appendix except turn
on only the centered fan head. Take the
power consumption measurements
separately, with the fan blades installed on
all fan heads and with any oscillating
function, if present, switched on.
*
*
*
*
*
3.3.1 Test conditions to be followed when
testing:
*
*
*
*
*
(3) If present, any additional accessories or
features sold with the ceiling fan that do not
relate to the ceiling fan’s ability to create
airflow by rotation of the fan blades (for
example light kit, heater, air ionization,
ultraviolet technology) is to be installed but
turned off during testing. If the accessory/
feature cannot be turned off, it shall be set
to the lowest energy-consuming mode during
testing.
(4) If present, turn off any oscillating
function causing the axis of rotation of the
fan head(s) to change relative to the ceiling
during operation prior to taking air velocity
measurements. Turn on any oscillating
function prior to taking power
measurements.
*
*
*
*
*
(8) Measure power input at a point that
includes all power-consuming components of
the ceiling fan (but without any attached
light kit energized; or without any additional
accessory or feature energized, if possible;
and if not, with the additional accessory or
feature set at the lowest energy-consuming
mode).
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with PROPOSALS4
*
*
*
*
*
3.3.2 Air Velocity and Power
Consumption Testing Procedure:
Measure the air velocity (FPM) and power
consumption (W) for HSSD ceiling fans until
stable measurements are achieved, measuring
at high speed only. Measure the air velocity
and power consumption for LSSD and VSD
ceiling fans that also meet the definition of
an LSSD fan until stable measurements are
achieved, measuring first at low speed and
then at high speed. To determine low speed,
start measurements at the lowest available
speed and move to the next highest speed
until the low speed definition in section 1.12
of this appendix is met. Air velocity and
power consumption measurements are
considered stable for high speed if:
(1) The average air velocity for each sensor
varies by less than 5% or 2 FPM, whichever
is greater, compared to the average air
velocity measured for that same sensor in a
successive set of air velocity measurements,
and
(2) Average power consumption varies by
less than 1% in a successive set of power
consumption measurements.
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(a) Air velocity and power consumption
measurements are considered stable for low
speed if:
(1) The average air velocity for each sensor
varies by less than 10% or 2 FPM, whichever
is greater, compared to the average air
velocity measured for that same sensor in a
successive set of air velocity measurements,
and
(2) Average power consumption varies by
less than 1% in a successive set of power
consumption measurements.
(b) These stability criteria are applied
differently to ceiling fans with airflow not
directly downward. See section 3.3.3 of this
appendix.
Step 1: Set the first sensor arm (if using
four fixed arms), two sensor arm (if using a
two-arm rotating setup), or single sensor arm
(if using a single-arm rotating setup) to the
0 degree Position (Axis A). If necessary, use
a marking as reference. If using a single-arm
rotating setup or two-arm rotating setup,
adjust the sensor arm alignment until it is at
the 0 degree position by remotely controlling
the antenna rotator.
Step 2: Set software up to read and record
air velocity, expressed in feet per minute
(FPM) in 1 second intervals. (Temperature
does not need to be recorded in 1 second
intervals.) Record current barometric
pressure.
Step 3: Allow test fan to run 15 minutes
at rated voltage and at high speed if the
ceiling fan is an HSSD ceiling fan. If the
ceiling fan is an LSSD or VSD ceiling fan that
also meets the definition of an LSSD fan,
allow the test fan to run 15 minutes at the
rated voltage and at the lowest available
ceiling fan speed. Turn off all forced-air
environmental conditioning equipment
entering the chamber (e.g., air conditioning),
close all doors and vents, and wait an
additional 3 minutes prior to starting test
session.
Step 4a: For a rotating sensor arm: Begin
recording readings. Starting with Axis A, take
100 air velocity readings (100 seconds runtime) and record these data. For all fans
except multi-head fans and fans capable of
oscillating, also measure power during the
interval that air velocity measurements are
taken. Record the average value of the air
velocity readings for each sensor in feet per
minute (FPM). Determine if the readings
meet the low speed definition as defined in
section 1.12 of this appendix. If not, restart
Step 4a at the next highest speed until the
low-speed definition is met. Once the low
speed definition is met, rotate the arm,
stabilize the arm, and allow 30 seconds to
allow the arm to stop oscillating. Repeat data
recording and rotation process for Axes B, C,
and D. Step 4a is complete when the readings
for all axes meet the low speed definition at
the same speed. Save the data for all axes
only for those measurements that meet the
low speed definition. Using the
measurements applicable to low speed,
record the average value of the power
measurement in watts (W) (400 readings).
Record the average value of the air velocity
readings for each sensor in feet per minute
(FPM) (400 readings).
Step 4b: For a two-arm rotating setup:
Begin recording readings. Starting with Axes
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69571
A and C, take 100 air velocity readings (100
seconds run-time) for both axes and record
these data. For all fans except multi-head
fans and fans capable of oscillating, also
measure power during the interval that air
velocity measurements are taken. Record the
average value of the air velocity readings for
each sensor in feet per minute (FPM).
Determine if the readings meet the low speed
definition as defined in section 1.12 of this
appendix. If not, restart Step 4b at the next
highest speed until the low speed definition
is met. Once the low speed definition is met,
rotate the two-arm, stabilize the arm, and
allow 30 seconds to allow the arm to stop
oscillating. Repeat data recording for Axes B
and D. Step 4b is complete when the readings
for all axes meet the low speed definition at
the same speed. Save the data for all axes
only for those measurements that meet the
low speed definition. Using the
measurements applicable to low speed,
record the average value of the power
measurement in watts (W) (200 readings).
Record the average value of the air velocity
readings for each sensor in feet per minute
(FPM) (200 readings).
Step 4c: For four fixed sensor arms: Begin
recording readings. Take 100 air velocity
readings (100 seconds run-time) and record
this data. Take the readings for all sensor
arms (Axes A, B, C, and D) simultaneously.
For all fans except multi-head fans and fans
capable of oscillating, also measure power
during the interval that air velocity
measurements are taken. Record the average
value of the air velocity readings for each
sensor in feet per minute (FPM). Determine
if the readings meet the low speed definition
as defined in section 1.12 of this appendix.
If not, restart Step 4c at the next highest
speed until the low speed definition is met.
Step 4c is complete when the readings for all
axes meet the low speed definition at the
same speed. Save the data for all axes only
for those measurements that meet the low
speed definition. Using the measurements
applicable to low speed, record the average
value of the power measurement in watts (W)
(100 readings). Record the average value of
the air velocity readings for each sensor in
feet per minute (FPM) (100 readings).
Step 5: Repeat step 4a, 4b or 4c until stable
measurements are achieved.
Step 6: Repeat steps 1 through 5 above on
high speed for LSSD and VSD ceiling fans
that also meet the definition of an LSSD fan.
Note: Ensure that temperature and humidity
readings are maintained within the required
tolerances for the duration of the test (all
tested speeds). Forced-air environmental
conditioning equipment may be used and
doors and vents may be opened between test
sessions to maintain environmental
conditions.
Step 7: If testing a multi-mount ceiling fan,
repeat steps 1 through 6 with the ceiling fan
in the ceiling fan configuration (associated
with either hugger or standard ceiling fans)
not already tested.
If a multi-head ceiling fan includes more
than one category of ceiling fan head, then
test at least one of each unique category. A
fan head with different construction that
could affect air movement or power
consumption, such as housing, blade pitch,
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or motor, would constitute a different
category of fan head.
Step 8: For multi-head ceiling fans,
measure active (real) power consumption in
all phases simultaneously at each speed
continuously for 100 seconds with all fan
heads turned on, and record the average
value at each speed in watts (W).
For ceiling fans with an oscillating
function, measure active (real) power
consumption in all phases simultaneously at
each speed continuously for 100 seconds
with the oscillating function turned on.
Record the average value of the power
measurement in watts (W).
For both multi-head ceiling fans and fans
with an oscillating function, repeat power
consumption measurement until stable
power measurements are achieved.
10
9
8
7
positions away from the sensor 1 along the
A axis, substitute the air velocity at A axis
sensor 4 for the average air velocity at sensor
1. Take the average of the air velocity at A
axis sensors 3 and 5 as a substitute for the
average air velocity at sensor 2, take the
average of the air velocity at A axis sensors
2 and 6 as a substitute for the average air
velocity at sensor 3, etc. Lastly, take the
average of the air velocities at A axis sensor
10 and C axis sensor 4 as a substitute for the
average air velocity at sensor 7. Stability
criteria apply after these substitutions. For
example, air velocity stability at sensor 7 are
determined based on the average of average
air velocity at A axis sensor 10 and C axis
sensor 4 in successive measurements. Any air
velocity measurements made along the B–D
axis are not included in the calculation of
average air velocity.
3.3.3 Air Velocity Measurements for
Ceiling Fans With Airflow Not Directly
Downward:
Using the number of sensors that cover the
same diameter as if the airflow were directly
downward, record air velocity at each speed
from the same number of continuous sensors
with the largest air velocity measurements.
This continuous set of sensors must be along
the axis that the ceiling fan tilt is directed in
(and along the axis that is 180 degrees from
the first axis). For example, a 42-inch fan
tilted toward axis A may create the pattern
of air velocity shown in Figure 4 of this
appendix. As shown in Table 1 of this
appendix, a 42-inch fan would normally
require 7 active sensors per axis. However,
because the fan is not directed downward, all
sensors must record data. In this case,
because the set of sensors corresponding to
maximum air velocity are centered 3 sensor
S
5
4
3
2
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Sensor number
Figure 4 to Appendix U to Subpart B of Part 430: Example Air Velocity Pattern for
Airflow Not Directly Downward
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*
*
*
*
*
3.5 Active mode test measurement for
large-diameter ceiling fans, high-speed beltdriven ceiling fans and large-diameter beltdriven ceiling fans:
(1) Test large-diameter ceiling fans in
accordance with AMCA 208–18
(incorporated by reference, see § 430.3), in all
phases simultaneously at:
(a) High speed, and
(b) 40 percent or the nearest speed that is
not less than 40 percent speed.
(2) Test high-speed belt-driven ceiling fans
and large-diameter belt-driven ceiling fans in
accordance with AMCA 208–18, in all phases
simultaneously at:
(a) High speed, and
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(b) 40 percent or the nearest speed that is
not less than 40 percent speed, if the fan is
capable of multi-speed operation.
(3) When testing at 40 percent speed for
large-diameter ceiling fans that can operate
over an infinite number of speeds (e.g.,
ceiling fans with VFDs), ensure the average
measured RPM is within the greater of 1% of
the average RPM at high speed or 1 RPM. For
example, if the average measured RPM at
high speed is 50 RPM, for testing at 40%
speed, the average measured RPM should be
between 19 RPM and 21 RPM. If the average
measured RPM falls outside of this tolerance,
adjust the ceiling fan speed and repeat the
test. Calculate the airflow and measure the
active (real) power consumption in all phases
simultaneously in accordance with the test
requirements specified in sections 8 and 9,
AMCA 230–15, with the following
modifications:
3.5.1 Measure active (real) power
consumption in all phases simultaneously at
a point that includes all power-consuming
components of the ceiling fan. If present, any
additional accessories or features sold with
the ceiling fan that do not relate to the ceiling
fan’s ability to create airflow by rotation of
the fan blades (for example light kit, heater,
air ionization, ultraviolet technology) are to
be installed but turned off during testing. If
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the accessory/feature cannot be turned off, it
shall be set to the lowest energy-consuming
mode during testing.
*
*
*
*
*
3.6 Test measurement for standby power
consumption.
(1) * * *
(a) The ability to facilitate the activation or
deactivation of other functions (including
active mode) by remote switch (including
remote control), internal sensor, or timer.
(b) Continuous functions, including
information or status displays (including
clocks), or sensor-based functions.
*
*
*
*
*
4. Calculation of Ceiling Fan Efficiency
From the Test Results:
4.1 Calculation of effective area for smalldiameter ceiling fans other than high-speed
belt-driven ceiling fans:
Calculate the effective area corresponding
to each sensor used in the test method for
small-diameter ceiling fans other than highspeed belt-driven ceiling fans (section 3.3 of
this appendix) with the following equations:
(1) For sensor 1, the sensor located directly
underneath the center of the ceiling fan, the
effective width of the circle is 2 inches, and
the effective area is:
E:\FR\FM\07DEP4.SGM
07DEP4
EP07DE21.010</GPH>
3.4 Test apparatus for large-diameter
ceiling fans, high-speed belt-driven ceiling
fans and large-diameter belt-driven ceiling
fans:
The test apparatus and instructions for
testing large-diameter ceiling fans, HSBD and
LDBD ceiling fans must conform to the
requirements specified in sections 3 through
7 of AMCA 230–15 (incorporated by
reference, see § 430.3), with the following
modifications:
Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 232 / Tuesday, December 7, 2021 / Proposed Rules
Effective Area (sq.ft.)
(2) For the sensors between sensor 1 and
the last sensor used in the measurement, the
effective area has a width of 4 inches. If a
= 11: ( 122 )2 = 0. 0873
Effective Area (sq.ft.)
Eq.1
sensor is a distance d, in inches, from sensor
1, then the effective area is:
Effective Area (sq.ft.)=
(3) For the last sensor, the width of the
effective area depends on the horizontal
displacement between the last sensor and the
point on the ceiling fan blades furthest
radially from the center of the fan. The total
area included in an airflow calculation is the
area of a circle 8 inches larger in diameter
69573
11:
2
d+2) 2- (d-2)
(12
12
than the ceiling fan blade span (as specified
in section 3 of this appendix).
Therefore, for example, for a 42-inch
ceiling fan, the last sensor is 3 inches beyond
the end of the ceiling fan blades. Because
only the area within 4 inches of the end of
the ceiling fan blades is included in the
d+1) 2= 1l (12
1l
d+3) 2= 1l (12
1l
Eq. 2
11:
airflow calculation, the effective width of the
circle corresponding to the last sensor would
be 3 inches. The calculation for the effective
area corresponding to the last sensor would
then be:
2 12 2- (24-2)
2
(d-2)
12 = (24+1)
12 = 3. 076
Eq. 3
2 12 2- (24-2)
2
(d-2)
12 = (24+3)
12 = 5.345
Eq. 4
1l
1l
For a 46-inch ceiling fan, the effective area
of the last sensor would have a width of 5
inches, and the effective area would be:
appendix), and then sum the products to
obtain the overall calculated airflow at the
tested speed.
For each speed, using the overall
calculated airflow and the overall average
power consumption measurements from the
successive sets of measurements as follows:
= wsbXOHsb
'f.i(CFM;xOH;)
+ 'f.;(W;XOH;)
TABLE 2 TO APPENDIX U TO SUBPART B OF PART 430: DAILY OPERATING HOURS FOR CALCULATING CEILING FAN
EFFICIENCY
No Standby
With standby
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with PROPOSALS4
Daily Operating Hours for LSSD and VSD* Ceiling Fans
High Speed ..............................................................................................................................................................
Low Speed ...............................................................................................................................................................
Standby Mode ..........................................................................................................................................................
Off Mode ..................................................................................................................................................................
Daily Operating Hours for HSSD Ceiling Fans
3.4
3.0
0.0
17.6
3.4
3.0
17.6
0.0
High Speed ..............................................................................................................................................................
Standby Mode ..........................................................................................................................................................
Off Mode ..................................................................................................................................................................
12.0
0.0
12.0
12.0
12.0
0.0
These values apply only to VSD fans that also meet the definition of an LSSD fan.
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corresponds to the ceiling fan mounted in the
configuration associated with the definition
of a hugger ceiling fan, and the other
efficiency corresponds to the ceiling fan
mounted in the configuration associated with
the definition of a standard ceiling fan.
EP07DE21.014</GPH>
OHSb = operating hours in standby mode, as
specified in Table 2 of this appendix,
and
WSb = power consumption in standby mode.
Calculate two ceiling fan efficiencies for
multi-mount ceiling fans: One efficiency
Eq. 5
EP07DE21.013</GPH>
LSSD, and VSD ceiling fans, multiply the
overall average air velocity at each sensor
position from section 3.3 (for high speed for
HSSD, LSSD, and VSD ceiling fans that also
meet the definition of an LSSD ceiling fan;
and repeated for low speed only for LSSD
and VSD ceiling fans that also meet the
definition of an LSSD ceiling fan) by that
sensor’s effective area (see section 4.1 of this
Ceiling Fan Efficiency (CFM/W)
Where:
CFMi = airflow at speed i,
OHi = operating hours at speed i, as specified
in Table 2 of this appendix,
Wi = power consumption at speed i,
1l
EP07DE21.012</GPH>
4.2 Calculation of airflow and efficiency
for small-diameter ceiling fans other than
high-speed belt-driven ceiling fans:
Calculate fan airflow using the overall
average of both sets of air velocity
measurements at each sensor position from
the successive sets of measurements that
meet the stability criteria from section 3.3 of
this appendix. To calculate airflow for HSSD,
1l
EP07DE21.011</GPH>
EffectiveArea(sq.ft.)
Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 232 / Tuesday, December 7, 2021 / Proposed Rules
4.3 Calculation of airflow and efficiency
for multi-head ceiling fans:
Calculate airflow for each fan head using
the method described in section 4.2 of this
appendix. To calculate overall airflow at a
given speed for a multi-head ceiling fan, sum
the airflow for each fan head included in the
ceiling fan (a single airflow can be applied
to each of the identical fan heads, but at least
one of each unique fan head must be tested).
The power consumption is the measured
power consumption with all fan heads on.
Ceiling Fan Efficiency (CFM/W)
= __L___i(_cF_M__;_x_oH_,___·) _ _
WsbxOHsb
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with PROPOSALS4
Where:
CFMi = sum of airflows for each head at
speed i,
OHi = operating hours at speed i as specified
in Table 2 of this appendix,
Wi = power consumption at speed i,
OHSb = operating hours in standby mode as
specified in Table 2 of this appendix,
and
WSb = power consumption in standby mode.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
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Eq. 6
+ L;(W;xOH;)
5. Calculation of Ceiling Fan Energy Index
(CFEI) From the Test Results for Large
Diameter Ceiling Fans, High-Speed BeltDriven Ceiling Fans, and Large-Diameter
Belt-Driven Ceiling Fans:
Calculate CFEI, which is the FEI for largediameter ceiling fans, high-speed belt-driven
ceiling fans, and large-diameter belt-driven
ceiling fans, at the speeds specified in section
3.5 of this appendix according to ANSI/
PO 00000
Using the airflow as described in this section,
and power consumption measurements from
section 3.3 of this appendix, calculate ceiling
fan efficiency for a multi-head ceiling fan as
follows:
AMCA 208–18, with the following
modifications:
(1) Using an Airflow Constant (Q0) of
26,500 cubic feet per minute;
(2) Using a Pressure Constant (P0) of
0.0027 inches water gauge; and
(3) Using a Fan Efficiency Constant (h0) of
42 percent.
[FR Doc. 2021–25416 Filed 12–6–21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450–01–P
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07DEP4
EP07DE21.016</GPH>
69574
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 232 (Tuesday, December 7, 2021)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 69544-69574]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-25416]
[[Page 69543]]
Vol. 86
Tuesday,
No. 232
December 7, 2021
Part IV
Department of Energy
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
10 CFR Parts 429 and 430
Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedure for Ceiling Fans; Proposed
Rule
Federal Register / Vol. 86 , No. 232 / Tuesday, December 7, 2021 /
Proposed Rules
[[Page 69544]]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
10 CFR Parts 429 and 430
[EERE-2013-BT-TP-0050]
RIN 1904-AD88
Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedure for Ceiling Fans
AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Department of
Energy.
ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking and request for
comment.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Energy (``DOE'') proposes to amend the
test procedures for ceiling fans. DOE initially presented proposed
amendments in a notice of proposed rulemaking (``NOPR'') published on
September 30, 2019. DOE is publishing this supplemental notice of
proposed rulemaking (``SNOPR'') to present modifications to certain
proposals presented in the NOPR, and to propose additional amendments.
In this SNOPR, DOE proposes to include a definition for ``circulating
air'' for the purpose of the ceiling fan definition, include ceiling
fans greater than 24 feet in the scope, include certain belt-driven
ceiling fans within scope, include a standby metric for large-diameter
ceiling fans, amend the low speed definition, permit an alternate set-
up to collect air velocity test data, amend certain set-up and
operation specifications, amend the blade thickness measurement
requirement, and update product-specific rounding and enforcement
provisions. DOE is seeking comment from interested parties on the
proposal.
DATES: DOE will accept comments, data, and information regarding this
proposal no later than February 7, 2022. See section V, ``Public
Participation,'' for details. DOE will hold a webinar on Tuesday,
January 11, 2022, from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. E.S.T. See section V,
``Public Participation,'' for webinar registration information,
participant instructions, and information about the capabilities
available to webinar participants. If no participants register for the
webinar, it will be cancelled.
ADDRESSES: Interested persons are encouraged to submit comments using
the Federal eRulemaking Portal at www.regulations.gov. Follow the
instructions for submitting comments. Alternatively, interested persons
may submit comments, identified by docket number EERE-2013-BT-TP-0050,
by any of the following methods:
1. Federal eRulemaking Portal: www.regulations.gov. Follow the
instructions for submitting comments.
2. Email: [email protected]. Include the docket number EERE-
2013-BT-TP-0050 or regulatory information number (``RIN'') 1904-AD88 in
the subject line of the message.
No telefacsimilies (``faxes'') will be accepted. For detailed
instructions on submitting comments and additional information on this
process, see section V of this document.
Although DOE has routinely accepted public comment submissions
through a variety of mechanisms, including the Federal eRulemaking
Portal, email, postal mail, or hand delivery/courier, the Department
has found it necessary to make temporary modifications to the comment
submission process in light of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. DOE is
currently suspending receipt of public comments via postal mail and
hand delivery/courier. If a commenter finds that this change poses an
undue hardship, please contact Appliance Standards Program staff at
(202) 586-1445 to discuss the need for alternative arrangements. Once
the Covid-19 pandemic health emergency is resolved, DOE anticipates
resuming all of its regular options for public comment submission,
including postal mail and hand delivery/courier.
Docket: The docket, which includes Federal Register notices,
webinar attendee lists and transcripts (if a webinar is held),
comments, and other supporting documents/materials, is available for
review at www.regulations.gov. All documents in the docket are listed
in the www.regulations.gov index. However, some documents listed in the
index, such as those containing information that is exempt from public
disclosure, may not be publicly available.
The docket web page can be found at regulations.gov/docket/EERE-2013-BT-TP-0050. The docket web page contains instructions on how to
access all documents, including public comments, in the docket. See
section V for information on how to submit comments through
www.regulations.gov.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Mr. Jeremy Dommu, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Energy
Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Building Technologies Office, EE-2J,
1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585-0121. Telephone:
(202) 586-9870. Email [email protected].
Ms. Amelia Whiting, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the General
Counsel, GC-33, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585-0121.
Telephone: (202) 586-9870. Email:
[email protected].
For further information on how to submit a comment, review other
public comments and the docket, or participate in a public meeting (if
one is held), contact the Appliance and Equipment Standards Program
staff at (202) 287-1445 or by email:
[email protected].
DOE has submitted the collection of information contained in the
proposed rule to OMB for review under the Paperwork Reduction Act, as
amended. (44 U.S.C. 3507d)) Comments on the information collection
proposal shall be directed to the Office of Information and Regulatory
Affairs, Office of Management and Budget, Attention: Sofie Miller, OIRA
Desk Officer by email: [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Table of Contents
I. Authority and Background
A. Authority
B. Background
II. Synopsis of the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
III. Discussion
A. Scope of Ceiling Fan Definition
B. Scope of Test Procedure for Large-Diameter Ceiling Fans
C. Belt-Driven Ceiling Fans
D. Standby Power Metric for Large-Diameter Ceiling Fans
E. Low-Speed Definition
F. Sensor Arm Setups
G. Air Velocity Sensor Mounting Angle
H. Instructions To Measure Blade Thickness
I. Specifications for Ceiling Fans With Accessories
J. Product Specific Rounding and Enforcement Provisions
1. Airflow (CFM) at High Speed Rounding
2. Blade Edge Thickness Rounding and Tolerance
3. Blade RPM Tolerance
4. Represented Values Within Product Class Definitions
K. Test Procedure Costs, Harmonization, and Other Topics
1. Test Procedure Costs and Impact
2. Harmonization With Industry Standards
L. Compliance Date and Waivers
IV. Procedural Issues and Regulatory Review
A. Review Under Executive Order 12866
B. Review Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act
1. Description of Reasons Why Action Is Being Considered
2. Objective of, and Legal Basis for, Rule
3. Description and Estimate of Small Entities Regulated
4. Description and Estimate of Compliance Requirements
5. Duplication, Overlap, and Conflict With Other Rules and
Regulations
[[Page 69545]]
6. Significant Alternatives to the Rule
C. Review Under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995
D. Review Under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
E. Review Under Executive Order 13132
F. Review Under Executive Order 12988
G. Review Under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
H. Review Under the Treasury and General Government
Appropriations Act, 1999
I. Review Under Treasury and General Government Appropriations
Act, 2001
J. Review Under Executive Order 12630
K. Review Under Executive Order 13211
L. Review Under Section 32 of the Federal Energy Administration
Act of 1974
M. Description of Materials Incorporated by Reference
V. Public Participation
A. Participation in the Webinar
B. Submission of Comments
C. Issues on Which DOE Seeks Comment
VI. Approval of the Office of the Secretary
I. Authority and Background
DOE is authorized to establish and amend energy conservation
standards and test procedures for ceiling fans. (42 U.S.C.
6293(b)(16)(A)(i) and (B), and 42 U.S.C. 6295(ff)) DOE's energy
conservation standards and test procedures for ceiling fans are
currently prescribed at title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations
(``CFR''), part 430 section 32(s)(1) and (2), 10 CFR part 430 section
23(w), and 10 CFR part 430 subpart B appendix U (``Appendix U''). The
following sections discuss DOE's authority to establish test procedures
for ceiling fans and relevant background information regarding DOE's
consideration of test procedures for this product.
A. Authority
The Energy Policy and Conservation Act, as amended (``EPCA''),\1\
authorizes DOE to regulate the energy efficiency of a number of
consumer products and certain industrial equipment. (42 U.S.C. 6291-
6317) Title III, Part B \2\ of EPCA established the Energy Conservation
Program for Consumer Products Other Than Automobiles, which sets forth
a variety of provisions designed to improve energy efficiency. These
products include ceiling fans, the subject of this document. (42 U.S.C.
6291(49), 42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(16)(A)(i) and (B), and 42 U.S.C. 6295(ff))
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ All references to EPCA in this document refer to the statute
as amended through the Energy Act of 2020, Public Law 116-260 (Dec.
27, 2020).
\2\ For editorial reasons, upon codification in the U.S. Code,
Part B was redesignated Part A.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
The energy conservation program under EPCA consists essentially of
four parts: (1) Testing, (2) labeling, (3) Federal energy conservation
standards, and (4) certification and enforcement procedures. Relevant
provisions of EPCA specifically include definitions (42 U.S.C. 6291),
test procedures (42 U.S.C. 6293), labeling provisions (42 U.S.C. 6294),
energy conservation standards (42 U.S.C. 6295), and the authority to
require information and reports from manufacturers (42 U.S.C. 6296).
The Federal testing requirements consist of test procedures that
manufacturers of covered products must use as the basis for: (1)
Certifying to DOE that their products comply with the applicable energy
conservation standards adopted pursuant to EPCA (42 U.S.C. 6295(s)),
and (2) making representations about the efficiency of those consumer
products (42 U.S.C. 6293(c)). Similarly, DOE must use these test
procedures to determine whether the products comply with relevant
standards promulgated under EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6295(s))
Federal energy efficiency requirements for covered products
established under EPCA generally supersede State laws and regulations
concerning energy conservation testing, labeling, and standards. (42
U.S.C. 6297) DOE may, however, grant waivers of Federal preemption for
particular State laws or regulations, in accordance with the procedures
and other provisions of EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6297(d))
Under 42 U.S.C. 6293, EPCA sets forth the criteria and procedures
DOE must follow when prescribing or amending test procedures for
covered products. EPCA requires that any test procedures prescribed or
amended under this section be reasonably designed to produce test
results which measure energy efficiency, energy use or estimated annual
operating cost of a covered product during a representative average use
cycle or period of use and not be unduly burdensome to conduct. (42
U.S.C. 6293(b)(3))
In addition, EPCA requires that DOE amend its test procedures for
all covered products to integrate measures of standby mode and off mode
energy consumption. (42 U.S.C. 6295(gg)(2)(A)) Standby mode and off
mode energy consumption must be incorporated into the overall energy
efficiency, energy consumption, or other energy descriptor for each
covered product unless the current test procedures already account for
and incorporate standby and off mode energy consumption or such
integration is technically infeasible. If an integrated test procedure
is technically infeasible, DOE must prescribe a separate standby mode
and off mode energy use test procedure for the covered product, if
technically feasible. (42 U.S.C. 6295(gg)(2)(A)) Any such amendment
must consider the most current versions of the International
Electrotechnical Commission (``IEC'') Standard 62301 \3\ and IEC
Standard 62087 \4\ as applicable. (42 U.S.C. 6295(gg)(2)(A))
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\3\ IEC 62301, Household electrical appliances--Measurement of
standby power (Edition 2.0, 2011-01).
\4\ IEC 62087, Methods of measurement for the power consumption
of audio, video, and related equipment (Edition 3.0, 2011-04).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
With respect to ceiling fans, EPCA requires that test procedures be
based on the ``Energy Star Testing Facility Guidance Manual: Building a
Testing Facility and Performing the Solid State Test Method for ENERGY
STAR Qualified Ceiling Fans, Version 1.1'' published by the
Environmental Protection Agency, and that the Secretary may review and
revise the test procedures established. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(16)(A)(i)
and (B))
EPCA also requires that, at least once every 7 years, DOE evaluate
test procedures for each type of covered product, including ceiling
fans, to determine whether amended test procedures would more
accurately or fully comply with the requirements for the test
procedures to not be unduly burdensome to conduct and be reasonably
designed to produce test results that reflect energy efficiency, energy
use, and estimated operating costs during a representative average use
cycle or period of use. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(1)(A))
If the Secretary determines, on her own behalf or in response to a
petition by any interested person, that a test procedure should be
prescribed or amended, the Secretary shall promptly publish in the
Federal Register proposed test procedures and afford interested persons
an opportunity to present oral and written data, views, and arguments
with respect to such procedures. The comment period on a proposed rule
to amend a test procedure shall be at least 60 days and may not exceed
270 days. In prescribing or amending a test procedure, the Secretary
shall take into account such information as the Secretary determines
relevant to such procedure, including technological developments
relating to energy use or energy efficiency of the type (or class) of
covered products involved. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(2)). If DOE determines
that test procedure revisions are not appropriate, DOE must publish its
determination not to amend the test procedures. (42 U.S.C.
6293(b)(1)(A)(ii)) DOE is publishing this SNOPR pursuant to the 7-year
review requirement specified in EPCA.
[[Page 69546]]
B. Background
As stated, DOE's existing test procedures for ceiling fans appear
at Appendix U. DOE published a final rule in the Federal Register on
July 25, 2016 (``July 2016 Final Rule''), which amended the test
procedures for ceiling fans at Appendix U. 81 FR 48620, 48622. On
September 30, 2019, DOE published a NOPR (``September 2019 NOPR'')
proposing amendments to the test procedure addressing questions
received from interested parties. 84 FR 51440. In the September 2019
NOPR, DOE proposed to interpret the term ``suspended from a ceiling''
in the EPCA definition of ceiling fan to mean offered for mounting only
on a ceiling; specify that very small-diameter (``VSD'') ceiling fans
that do not also meet the definition of low-speed small-diameter
(``LSSD'') ceiling fan are not required to be tested pursuant to the
DOE test method; for LSSD and VSD ceiling fans, increase the tolerance
for the stability criteria for the average air velocity measurements
during low speed tests; specify that large-diameter ceiling fans with
blade spans greater than 24 feet do not need to be tested pursuant to
the DOE test method; codify current guidance on calculating several
values reported on the U.S. Federal Trade Commission's (``FTC'')
EnergyGuide label for LSSD and VSD ceiling fans; and amend
certification requirements and product-specific enforcement provisions
to reflect the current test procedures and recently amended energy
conservation standards for ceiling fans. 84 FR 51440, 51442.
Additionally, on October 17, 2019, DOE hosted a public meeting to
present the September 2019 NOPR proposals.
Table I.1 lists a subset of comments received by DOE in response to
the September 2019 NOPR that are relevant to this SNOPR.
Table I.1--Subset of Comments Received in Response to September 2019 NOPR That Are Relevant to This SNOPR
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Commenter(s) Reference in this SNOPR Commenter type
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air Movement and Control Association AMCA...................... Trade Association.
International *.
American Lighting Association.......... ALA....................... Trade Association.
Anonymous.............................. Anonymous................. Individual Commenter.
Big Ass Fans........................... BAF....................... Manufacturer.
Chris Ransom........................... Ransom.................... Individual Commenter.
Hunter Fan Company..................... Hunter.................... Manufacturer.
Pacific Gas and Electric Company, San CA IOUs................... Utilities.
Diego Gas and Electric, and Southern
California Edison.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DOE received two separate comment submissions from AMCA; however, the second comment replaced the first. See
comment number 33 in the docket (replacing comment number 30).
A parenthetical reference at the end of a comment quotation or
paraphrase provides the location of the item in the public record.\5\
This SNOPR only discusses a subset of topics under consideration as
part of this test procedure rulemaking and not all comments received in
response to the September 2019 NOPR are addressed in this SNOPR.
Comments not addressed in this SNOPR will be addressed in the next
stages of the rulemaking.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\5\ The parenthetical reference provides a reference for
information located in the docket of DOE's rulemaking to develop
test procedures for ceiling fans. (Docket No. EERE-2013-BT-TP-0050,
which is maintained at www.regulations.gov/docket/EERE-2013-BT-TP-0050). The references are arranged as follows: (Commenter name,
comment docket ID number, page of that document).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
DOE, with the support of the ALA, conducted a round robin test
program for ceiling fans to observe laboratory setups and test
practices, evaluate within-laboratory variation (i.e., repeatability)
and assess between-laboratory consistency (i.e., reproducibility).
Round robin testing was conducted from January 2019 to April 2020. Six
test laboratories participated in the round robin, representing both
manufacturer laboratories and third-party laboratories. Four
laboratories are located in North America, and two are located in
China. ALA and ceiling fan manufacturers supplied two samples each of
five ceiling fan models (for a total of 10 test samples). The
laboratories were instructed to test according to appendix U. DOE
representatives were present during all testing to observe test setups
and practices used in a variety of labs. In this SNOPR, DOE includes
several proposals based on test results and observations made during
round robin testing. The round robin test report has been separately
published in the docket.\6\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\6\ The docketed round robin report can be found in the
rulemaking docket EERE-2013-BT-TP-0050. www.regulations.gov/docket/EERE-2013-BT-TP-0050.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
On May 27, 2021, DOE published a final rule to amend the current
regulations for large-diameter ceiling fans. 86 FR 28469 (``May 2021
Technical Amendment'') The contents of these technical amendments
correspond with provisions enacted by Congress through the Energy Act
of 2020. Id. Specifically, section 1008 of the Energy Act of 2020
amended section 325(ff)(6) of EPCA to specify that large-diameter
ceiling fans manufactured on or after January 21, 2020, are not
required to meet minimum ceiling fan efficiency requirements in terms
of the ratio of the total airflow to the total power consumption as
established in a final rule published January 19, 2017 (82 FR 6826;
``January 2017 Final Rule''), and instead are required to meet
specified minimum efficiency requirements based on the Ceiling Fan
Energy Index (``CFEI'') metric. 86 FR 28469, 28469-28470. The May 2021
Technical Amendment also implemented conforming amendments to the
ceiling fan test procedure to ensure consistency with the Energy Act of
2020. 86 FR 28469, 28470.
On May 7, 2021, DOE published an early assessment request for
information (RFI) undertaking an early assessment review for amended
energy conservation standards for ceiling fans to determine whether to
amend applicable energy conservation standards for this product. 86 FR
24538 (``May 2021 RFI'').
II. Synopsis of the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
In this SNOPR, DOE proposes to update appendix U as follows:
(1) Specify that for the purpose of the ceiling fan definition,
``circulating air'' means the discharge of air in an upward or
downward direction with the air returning to the intake side of the
fan. A ceiling fan that has a ratio of fan blade span (in inches) to
maximum rotation rate (in revolutions per minute) greater than 0.06
provides circulating air;
(2) Extend the scope of the test procedure to include large
diameter fans with a diameter greater than 24 feet;
[[Page 69547]]
(3) Include high-speed belt-driven and large-diameter belt-
driven ceiling fans within scope;
(4) Add a standby power metric for large-diameter ceiling fans;
(5) Modify the low-speed definition to ensure that LSSD ceiling
fans (including VSD ceiling fans that also meet the definition of an
LSSD fan) are tested at a more representative low speed rather than
the currently required ``lowest available ceiling fan speed'';
(6) Allow use of an alternative procedure for air velocity data
collection that relies on a two-arm sensor arm setup, and require
setups with arm rotation to stabilize the arm prior to data
collection;
(7) Clarify the alignment of air velocity sensor placement on
the sensor arm(s);
(8) Specify the instructions to measure blade thickness for LSSD
and HSSD ceiling fan definitions;
(9) Specify test procedures for ceiling fans with accessories
and/or features; and
(10) Amend product-specific rounding and enforcement provisions
for ceiling fans.
Table II.1 summarizes DOE's proposed actions compared to the
current test procedure, as well as the reason for the proposed change.
Table II.1--Summary of Changes in Proposed Test Procedure Relative to Current Test Procedure
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Current DOE test procedure NOPR proposal SNOPR proposal Attribution
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Defines ``ceiling fan'' based on EPCA Interpreted the EPCA Defines the term Response to industry
as ``a nonportable device that is definition of ceiling ``circulating air'' comments.
suspended from a ceiling for fan to mean those fans for the purpose of the
circulating air via the rotation of offered for mounting ceiling fan definition
fan blades''. only on a ceiling and to mean ``the
seeks comment on a discharge of air in an
proposed alternative upward or downward
interpretation. direction with the air
returning to the
intake side of the
fan. A ceiling fan
that has a ratio of
fan blade span (in
inches) to maximum
rotation rate (in
revolutions per
minute) greater than
0.06 provides
circulating air''.
Excludes large diameter fans with a Specified that large- Includes large diameter Response to industry
diameter of greater than 24 feet diameter ceiling with fans with a diameter comments.
from the test procedure. blade spans greater of greater than 24
than 24 feet do not feet in the scope of
need to be tested the test procedure.
pursuant to the DOE
test method.
Excludes all belt-driven ceiling fans N/A.................... Includes definitions Response to industry
from the test procedure. and test procedures comments.
for high-speed belt-
driven ceiling fans
and large-diameter
belt-driven ceiling
fans.
Includes a standby power test N/A.................... Amends Appendix U to 42 U.S.C.
procedure, but no standby power include a standby 6295(gg)(2)(A)
metric for large-diameter ceiling power metric for large- requires test
fan CFEI metric. Prior to the Energy diameter ceiling fans. procedures for all
Act of 2020, the CFM/W metric was products to include
applicable for large-diameter standby mode and off
ceiling fans, which included standby mode energy
power. consumption.
Defines ``low speed'' as ``the lowest No proposed updates, Defines ``low speed'' Improve the
available ceiling fan speed, i.e., but requested comment as the ``lowest repeatability and
the fan speed corresponding to the on updating the available ceiling fan reproducibility of the
minimum, non-zero, blade RPM''. definition of low speed for which fewer test procedure as
speed to ``as the than half or three, determined during
lowest available whichever is fewer, round robin testing.
ceiling fan speed for sensors per individual
which fewer than half axis are measuring
or three, whichever is less than 40 feet per
fewer, sensors on any minute.''
individual axis are Alternatively, DOE is
measuring less than 30 considering
feet per minute''. representing the
proposed definition as
a table instead,
indicating the number
of sensors that must
measure >40 FPM.
Prescribes two setups, a four-arm and N/A.................... Adds an alternative two- Improve the
one-arm sensor setup for certain fan arm setup to measure repeatability and
types. air velocity. Further, reproducibility of the
adds requirement for test procedure as
setups that require determined during
arm rotation to round robin testing.
stabilize the arm to
dissipate any residual
turbulence prior to
data collection.
Does not explicitly specify air N/A.................... Provides explicit Improve the
velocity sensor alignment or instructions to align repeatability and
acceptance angle. the air velocity reproducibility of the
sensors perpendicular test procedure as
to the airflow. determined during
round robin testing.
Does not specify how fan blade Added specification to Adds specification to Improve the
thickness should be measured. measure fan blade measure fan blade repeatability and
thickness without thickness in a reproducibility of the
consideration of consistent manner for test procedure.
``rolled-edge'' blade all fan blade types
design. (including ``rolled-
edge'' blade designs).
[[Page 69548]]
Does not include specific N/A.................... Specifies that Improve
instructions on how ceiling fan accessories/additional representativeness and
accessories and/or features should features should be reproducibility of the
be incorporated into the test turned off, when test procedure.
procedure. possible, before
testing ceiling fans
for active mode and
standby mode.
Does not include any measurement Included measurement Updates measurement Include rounding and
tolerances for blade RPM and blade tolerance of at least tolerances for blade enforcement
edge thickness and any rounding 0.1 inch RPM to 2% and blade requirements for
requirement for represented values. for blade edge edge thickness to current standards.
thickness; within the 0.01 inch.
greater of 1% of the Also updates rounding
average RPM at high requirements for blade
speed (rounded to the edge thickness to
nearest RPM) or 1 RPM. 0.01 inch.
Includes proposal that Includes new rounding
blade edge thickness proposal for airflow
be rounded to 0.1 inch.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Additionally, to provide interested parties with a complete set of
proposed amendments, this SNOPR includes all proposed regulatory text
for the proposals from the September 2019 NOPR and this SNOPR. DOE
maintains the following proposals from the September 2019 NOPR: (1)
Specifying that VSD ceiling fans that do not also meet the definition
of LSSD fan are not required to be tested pursuant to the DOE test
method for purposes of demonstrating compliance with DOE's energy
conservation standards for ceiling fans or representations of
efficiency; (2) increasing the tolerance for the stability criteria for
the average air velocity measurements for LSSD and VSD ceiling fans
that also meet the definition of LSSD fan; (3) codifying in regulation
existing guidance on the method for calculating several values reported
on the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) EnergyGuide label using results
from the ceiling fan test procedures in Appendix U to subpart B of 10
CFR part 430 and represented values in 10 CFR part 429; and (4)
amending product-specific represented values, rounding and enforcement
provisions. 84 FR 51440, 51442. DOE continues to review and consider
comments received on these proposals and will address such comments in
a future stage of the rulemaking. DOE will be addressing certification
and reporting requirements in a separate rulemaking.
DOE has tentatively determined that the proposed amendments
described in section III of this SNOPR would not require re-testing for
a majority of ceiling fans. The proposal to redefine low speed would
require retesting for a limited number of LSSD ceiling fans, if made
final. Discussion of DOE's proposed actions are addressed in detail in
section III of this SNOPR, including test procedure costs and cost
savings.
III. Discussion
A. Scope of Ceiling Fan Definition
The Energy Policy and Conservation Act defines ``ceiling fan'' as
``a nonportable device that is suspended from a ceiling for circulating
air via the rotation of fan blades.'' (42 U.S.C. 6291(49)) DOE codified
the statutory definition in 10 CFR 430.2. In the July 2016 Final Rule,
DOE stated that the test procedure applies to any product meeting this
definition, including hugger fans, fans designed for applications where
large airflow volume may be needed, and highly decorative fans. 81 FR
48620, 48622. DOE stated, however, that manufacturers were not required
to test the following fans according to the test procedure: Belt-driven
ceiling fans, centrifugal ceiling fans, oscillating ceiling fans, and
ceiling fans whose blades' plane of rotation cannot be within 45
degrees of horizontal. Id.
In the September 2019 NOPR, DOE proposed to clarify its
interpretation of the statutory definition in response to an inquiry
from the AMCA regarding the application of the term ``ceiling fan'' to
products known as ``air circulating fan heads (``ACFHs'').'' \7\ 84 FR
51440, 51443-51445. In letters submitted to DOE in May and July of
2019, AMCA asserted that air circulating fan heads have distinct
characteristics and functions compared to traditional ceiling fans,
including that air circulating fan heads provide concentrated
directional airflow as opposed to circulating air.\8\ (AMCA, No. 23 in
both May and July 2019 letters, at p. 1) AMCA recommended that DOE use
the physical characteristics of fan diameter and rotational tip speed
or outlet air speed as a means to distinguish fans that circulate air
(as necessary to meet the statutory definition of ``ceiling fan'') from
ACFHs that provide directional air flow (i.e., fans excluded from the
statutory definition of ``ceiling fan'').\9\ (AMCA, No. 23 in the July
2019 letter at p. 2)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\7\ Section 5.1.1 of ANSI/AMCA Standard 230-15 (``AMCA 230-
15''), ``Laboratory Methods of Testing Air Circulating Fans for
Rating and Certification,'' defines air circulating fan head as ``an
assembly consisting of a motor, impeller and guard for mounting on a
pedestal having a base and column, wall mount bracket, ceiling mount
bracket, I-beam bracket or other commonly accepted mounting means.''
\8\ The May and July 2019 letters are available at
www.regulations.gov/document?D=EERE-2013-BT-TP-0050-0023.
\9\ AMCA specifically recommended the use of tip speed, which is
calculated as blade diameter x 3.14159 x rotational speed in RPM,
and suggested that the maximum tip speed of a ceiling fan would be
4000 feet per minute. See May 2019 letter, page 2.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Accordingly, in the September 2019 NOPR, DOE proposed to clarify
the definition of ``ceiling fan'' and proposed two alternate
definitions of the term. The first proposed definition would provide
additional direction to distinguish a ``ceiling fan'' from other fans
based on the ``non-portable'' element and ``suspended from a ceiling''
(i.e., ``mounting'') element of the statutory definition. 84 FR 51440,
51444. Specifically, DOE proposed to include within the definition that
for purposes of the definition, the term ``suspended from a ceiling''
means offered for mounting on a ceiling, and the term ``nonportable''
means not offered for mounting on a surface other than a ceiling.'' Id.
The second proposed definition would specifically reference ACFHs
and provide additional clarification on the mounting element. 84 FR
51440, 51444. Specifically, DOE proposed to include within the
definition that any fan, including those meeting the definition of an
``air circulating fan head'' in
[[Page 69549]]
AMCA 230-15, that does not have a ceiling mount option, or that has
more than one mounting option (even if one of the mounting options is a
ceiling mount), is not a ceiling fan. Such fans do not meet the
statutory criteria of being ``nonportable'', ``suspended from the
ceiling'', and ``for the purpose of circulating air.'' 84 FR 51440,
51444-51445.
In addition to the alternate proposed definitions, DOE acknowledged
AMCA's suggestion of using tip speed or outlet air speed to distinguish
between ACFHs and ceiling fans, and requested comment and data on
whether and how the test procedure could be amended to accommodate such
a distinction. 84 FR 51440, 51445.
In response to the September 2019 NOPR, ALA explained that while
the first option is better than the alternative definition, they
opposed both options. ALA stated that the first alternate definition
(distinguishing ceiling fans based on ``non-portable'' and
``mounting'') is too broad, could create a loophole for ceiling fans to
be exempt from the standards, and that unregulated ceiling fans as a
result of this proposed definition would eventually overtake the
market. ALA also stated that the second alternative definition
(referencing ACFHs and ``mounting'') it is too narrow, and products
that would be innovative or meet a specific need in the market could
not be made or sold. (ALA, No. 34 at p. 2)
AMCA stated the proposal will provide excessive opportunity for
currently regulated fans to escape regulation. Further, AMCA identified
three large-diameter ceiling fan (``LDCF'') manufacturers that offer or
have offered ground-mounted LDCFs and suggested that with the proposed
reinterpretation, LDCF manufacturers could chose to offer a floor-mount
option for their products and be exempt from standards. AMCA also
commented that the proposed definition of ``portable'' would open a
significant loophole and explained that many LDCFs are not hardwired in
place. (AMCA, No. 33 at pp. 2-3)
CA IOUs stated that DOE's proposed interpretation to only address
fans offered for mounting on a ceiling in the September 2019 NOPR
deviates from the scope of products established under the existing
legislation and raises concerns of potential gaming to avoid product
testing, as well as potential backsliding for products that would be
newly exempted after being included in the previous test procedure
iteration. (CA IOUs No. 31 at p. 2)
Hunter commented that further clarification and additional
stipulations beyond those proposed by DOE would be required to prevent
unwelcomed loopholes and alleviate the possibility of ``gaming the
system'' to claim an exemption from testing. (Hunter No. 29 at p. 2)
Anonymous commented that the interpretations put forth in the NOPR
limit the applicability to nonportable ceiling fans that are used to
create air circulation, and recommended that the test procedures should
apply to all fans, even portable ones that may plug into the wall, and
are not necessarily for ``air circulation''. (Anonymous, No. 32 at p.
1)
As an alternative to DOE's proposal, multiple interested parties
recommended that the definition of ceiling fan be based on, in part, a
ratio of diameter to maximum operating speed. Specifically, these
commenters suggested that a diameter-to-maximum operating speed ratio
less than 0.06 inches/RPM could be used to distinguish products that
are not ceiling fans, i.e., air circulating fan heads. (Hunter Fans,
BAFs, Public Meeting Transcript at pp. 33-35, AMCA, No. 33 at pp. 3-6;
ALA, No. 34 at p. 2; and Hunter No. 29 at p. 2). AMCA further
recommended that air-circulating fan heads be named as a separate
category by DOE. (AMCA, No. 33 at p. 5) BAF suggested that the ratio of
diameter (inches) to the maximum speed (RPM) provides a reasonable
means for separating air circulating fan heads from LSSD, HSSD and
large-diameter ceiling fans. (BAF, No. 36 at pp. 1-2) As a
justification of this ratio, AMCA provided analysis of 528 fan models,
which included a total of 397 LDCF, HSSD, and LSSD ceiling fan types,
as well as 131 ACFHs. Among the sample of ACFH models, the highest
diameter-to-maximum operating speed ratio was 0.058, in comparison to
the lowest diameter-to-maximum operating speed ratios for the three
ceiling fan types (0.353, 0.091, and 0.087 for LDCF, HSSD, and LSSD,
respectively). Therefore, even the maximum ratio for the sample of ACFH
models is significantly lower than the minimum ratio for the other
ceiling fan types, thus showing a clear distinction between ACFH and
other ceiling fan types. Based on this analysis, AMCA recommended that
ACFHs be designated as a separate category by DOE in its ceiling fan
regulations, and that fans meeting the definition of ACFH per AMCA 230
\10\ and having a diameter-to-maximum operating speed ratio less than
or equal to 0.06 inches/RPM are not ``ceiling fans''. (AMCA, No. 33 at
pp. 4-6)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\10\ Section 5.1.1 of AMCA 230-15 defines air circulating fan
head as an ``assembly consisting of a motor, impeller and guard for
mounting on a pedestal having a base and column, wall mount bracket,
ceiling mount bracket, I-beam bracket or other commonly accepted
mounting means.''
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Similarly, Hunter provided data summarizing the ranges of diameter-
to-maximum operating speed ratios for a total of 414 fan models
representing LDCF, LSSD, and HSSD ceiling fan categories and ACFHs. The
data indicated minimum values of the diameter-to-maximum operating
speed ratio for the three ceiling fan types of around 0.10, 0.09, and
0.09 (for LDCF, HSSD, and LSSD, respectively) and a maximum value for
ACFHs of around 0.03. Based on this data, Hunter suggested that a ratio
of 0.06 would provide a clear separation between ACFHs and all other
fan classifications. (Hunter No. 29 at pp. 2-3)
ALA explained, in support of this proposal, that high-velocity fan
heads are not used for the purpose of circulating air within the
meaning of EPCA's ``ceiling fan'' definition as these fans do not
create air circulation by discharging air in the downward direction for
it to be returned to the intake side of the fan with significant
momentum. Instead, ALA commented that high-velocity fan heads provide
directional, concreated high speed airflow targeted to a specific
location. (ALA, No. 34 at pp. 2-3)
AMCA also provided comments on the extent to which the ceiling fan
design criteria (in 10 CFR 430.32(s)(1) \11\) would be applicable for
ACFHs. Specifically, AMCA stated that (1) the lighting requirements in
10 CFR 430.32(s)(1)(i) would only apply to a very small portion of the
ACFH market \12\ and that AMCA is unaware of any ACFH with an
integrated light kit; (2) the adjustable speed requirement in 10 CFR
430.32(s)(1)(ii) could be applicable, as some ACFHs offer multiple
operating speeds, but requiring adjustable speeds would add cost to
single-speed products; and (3) the capability of reverse fan action
requirement in 10 CFR 430.32(s)(1)(iii) would not be applicable because
reverse fan action is typically used for air
[[Page 69550]]
mixing in the heating season, and the blade shapes of ACFHs do not lend
themselves to great utility in the reverse direction. AMCA was also not
aware of any ACFHs that were reversible and stated that consumers also
do not purchase ACFHs for winter-mode (i.e., reverse direction) use.
(AMCA, No. 3 pp. 7-8)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\11\ The ceiling fan design criteria outlined in 10 CFR
430.32(s)(1) are: (i) Fan speed controls separate from any lighting
controls: (ii) Adjustable speed controls (either more than 1 speed
or variable speed); (ii) the capability of reversible fan action,
except for (A) fans sold for industrial applications, (B) fans sold
for outdoor applications, and (c) cases in which safety standards
would be violated by the use of the reversible mode.
\12\ AMCA explained that dock fans are the only air circulation
fans that are typically sold with a light, but the light is
typically attached to the mounting arm, not integrated into the fan.
(AMCA, No. 33 at p. 7)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
DOE performed an independent analysis using available test data
from past DOE rulemakings and manufacturer-provided data in support of
this test procedure rulemaking to calculate the diameter-to-maximum
operating speed to determine whether the currently regulated fans in
the test sample had a diameter-to-maximum operating speed ratio of
greater than 0.06, as AMCA's provided data suggests. The analysis
confirmed that HSSD, standard, and hugger ceiling fans have a diameter-
to-maximum operating speed ratio of greater than 0.06 in/RPM, while
those fans identified as ACFHs have a diameter-to-maximum operating
speed ratio of less than or equal to 0.06 in/RPM.
Table III.1--Summary of DOE Independent CF Definition Analysis
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Minimum diameter-to-
Number of maximum-operating- speed
ceiling fans ratio
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hugger........................ 42 0.098
Standard...................... 49 0.105
HSSD.......................... 11 0.078
VSD........................... 8 0.008
-------------------------
Maximum diameter-to-
maximum-operating-
speed ratio
-------------------------
ACFH.......................... 35 0.029
------------------------------------------------------------------------
In regards to VSD ceiling fans, all VSD ceiling fans, for which DOE
had available test data, had a diameter-to-maximum operating speed
ratio of less than 0.06 in/RPM, indicating that a threshold value of
0.06 in/RPM would not distinguish all VSD ceiling fans from ACFHs. VSDs
are discussed further in the discussion that follows.
In this SNOPR, DOE proposes to define the term ``circulating air'',
as it is used in the ceiling fan definition and include a specification
that ceiling fans with a maximum operating speed ratio of greater than
0.06 in/RPM is considered to provide circulating air. EPCA does not
define ``circulating air,'' but DOE understands that the term can
generally be understood as the discharge of air in an upward or
downward direction with the air returning to the intake side of the
fan, i.e., the air is circulated within a space. In contrast,
directional airflow targets the discharged air at a specific location
and the discharged air does not return to the intake side of the fan,
i.e., directional airflow moves air but does not circulate it within
the space. A fan that provides directional airflow, as opposed to
``circulating air'', would not be a ``ceiling fan'' as that term is
defined in EPCA.
DOE tentatively concludes that the diameter-to-maximum operating
speed ratio of 0.06 in/RPM is appropriate to distinguish fans with
directional airflow from circulating airflow. Data submitted by
commenters as well as DOE's analysis indicate that a ratio of 0.06 in/
RPM would distinguish fans that circulate air from fans that provide
directional airflow and therefore are not ``ceiling fans.'' With the
exception of certain VSD ceiling fans, as described further in the
following paragraph, application of this ratio will continue to include
within scope LDCF, HSSD, and LSSD ceiling fans, as these fans provide
circulating airflow.
As described, certain VSD ceiling fans have a diameter-to-maximum
operating speed ratio less than 0.06 and thus would be excluded from
the scope of ceiling fans because of the proposed definition for
``circulating air''. DOE identifies these VSD ceiling fans as ``high-
speed'' VSD ceiling fans because the tip speeds of the VSD ceiling fans
discussed in Table III.1 all exceed the LSSD definition tip speed
threshold (defined in section 1.16 of Appendix U), regardless of the
thickness of the blades. Therefore, these VSD ceiling fans would not
meet the LSSD ceiling fan definition. Further, as DOE discussed in the
September 2019 NOPR, the current DOE test procedure provides a method
of testing only those VSD ceiling fans that meet the LSSD ceiling fan
definition. 84 FR 51440, 51445. DOE proposed in the September 2019 NOPR
to specify explicitly that VSD ceiling fans that do not also meet the
LSSD definition are not required to be tested pursuant to the DOE test
method for the purposes of demonstrating compliance with DOE's energy
conservation standards for ceiling fans or representations of
efficiency. Id.
With regard to consideration of ``circulating air'', DOE
understands based on the physical characteristics of the fans that
these high-speed VSD ceiling fans provide consumers with directional
high-speed airflow and do not circulate air within the space.
Specifically, because of the small size (i.e., smaller blade span
compared to other small-diameter ceiling fans) and the higher speeds
(i.e., tip speeds above the LSSD ceiling fan definition thresholds),
the function of these ``high-speed'' VSD ceiling fans is more akin to
air circulating fan heads in that airflow is targeted in a specific
direction without the air returning to the intake side of the fan. For
this SNOPR, DOE initially determines that these high-speed VSD fans
were inappropriately covered and that because they provide directional
airflow and are not ``circulating air'', they would not be considered
ceiling fans. Further, DOE notes that VSD ceiling fans (as a whole)
represent less than one percent of the total ceiling fan market.
As discussed, the available data indicates that a diameter-to-
maximum operating speed ratio of 0.06 in/RPM would distinguish between
fans that provide air circulation and fans that provide directional
airflow. The proposed definition for ``circulating air'', which would
incorporate this ratio into the definition, would explicitly exclude
from the ceiling fan scope ACFHs and ``high-speed'' VSDs having a
diameter-to-operating speed ratio of less than 0.06 in/RPM. Therefore,
including a definition for air circulating fan heads in DOE's test
procedure would be unnecessary. DOE is therefore
[[Page 69551]]
not proposing a definition for air circulating fan head in this SNOPR.
In summary, in this SNOPR, DOE proposes the following definition
for ``circulating air'' for the purpose of the ceiling fan definition:
Ceiling fan means a nonportable device that is suspended from a
ceiling for circulating air via the rotation of fan blades. For the
purpose of this definition:
(1) Circulating Air means the discharge of air in an upward or
downward direction with the air returning to the intake side of the
fan. A ceiling fan that has a ratio of fan blade span (in inches) to
maximum rotation rate (in revolutions per minute) greater than 0.06
provides circulating air.
(2) For all other ceiling fan related definitions, see appendix U
to this subpart.
In proposing this amendment, DOE notes that the design standards of
EPCA would not be applicable to ceiling fans that do not meet the
criteria of the proposed definition. Specifically, EPCA requires all
ceiling fans manufactured after January 1, 2007, to have: (i) Fan speed
controls separate from any lighting controls; (ii) adjustable speed
controls (either more than 1 speed or variable speed); and (iii) the
capability of reversible fan action, except for fans sold for
industrial applications, fans sold for outdoor applications, and cases
in which safety standards would be violated by the use of the
reversible mode. (42 U.S.C. 6295(ff)(1)(A)) The energy conservation
standards established by DOE would also not be applicable to such
products.
Alternatively, DOE is considering including the definition of
``circulating air'' discussed previously within appendix U, instead of
within the ceiling fan definition of 10 CFR 430.2.
DOE seeks comment on the proposed definition of ``circulating air''
for the purpose of the ceiling fan definition. Specifically, DOE
requests comment on the use of a ``diameter-to-maximum operating
speed'' ratio to distinguish fans with circulating airflow from
directional airflow, and the appropriateness of using 0.06 in/RPM as
the threshold ratio. If another ratio should be considered, DOE
requests additional data to corroborate that ratio.
DOE seeks comment on the characterization of fans that would fall
below the 0.06 in/RPM threshold ratio, such as certain high-speed VSD
ceiling fans that do not also meet the definition of an LSSD fan.
Specifically, DOE request comment on the appropriateness of excluding
high-speed VSD ceiling fans from scope of ``ceiling fans.''
DOE seeks comment regarding whether ``circulating air'' should be
defined within the definition of ceiling fan at 10 CFR 430.2, as DOE
has proposed, or if ``circulating air'' should be defined separately
within appendix U.
B. Scope of Test Procedure for Large-Diameter Ceiling Fans
Currently, section 3.4.1 of appendix U specifies that the test
procedure for LDCFs is applicable for ceiling fans up to 24 feet in
diameter. While the test procedure is only applicable for ceiling fans
up to 24 feet in diameter, there is no language in the energy
conservation standards for large diameter ceiling fans (in 10 CFR
430.32(s)(2)(ii)) that explicitly limits the scope of the large-
diameter ceiling fan standards to large-diameter ceiling fans with
blade spans 24 feet or smaller.\13\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\13\ While, the Energy Act of 2020 updated 10 CFR 432(s)(2)(ii)
to specify that large diameter ceiling fans are subject to the CFEI
metric, the previous energy conservation standards or the amended
energy conservation standards imposed any upper limit on the blade
span for large-diameter ceiling fans.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
In the September 2019 NOPR, DOE proposed that LDCFs with blade
spans greater than 24 feet do not need to be tested pursuant to the DOE
test procedure for purposes of determining compliance with DOE energy
conservation standards or making other representations of efficiency
due to the lack of LDCFs on the market availability of test facilities
capable of testing LDCFs, especially those with blade spans greater
than 24 feet. 84 FR 51440, 51449 (citing 81 FR 48620, 48632 (July 25,
2016)). In response, BAF provided written comments and statements in
the public meeting that BAF does not foresee a need for establishing a
limit of 24 feet, which it described as artificial. (Public Meeting
Transcript at pp. 98-99; see also BAF, No. 36 at p.2) AMCA commented
that ceiling fans larger than 24 feet in diameter are uncommon in the
United States due to requirements in the United States Standard for the
Installation of Sprinkler Systems (NFPA 13). AMCA stated that in some
situations ceiling fans larger than 24 feet in diameter could be used
(e.g., where sprinklers are not present), and that the AMCA 230-15 test
method should be used for those ceiling fans. (AMCA, No. 33 at p. 8)
In this SNOPR, DOE is proposing to remove the 24-foot blade span
limit in section 3.4.1 of appendix U. This proposal is based on two
primary factors. First, because DOE's test procedure for LDCFs is based
on AMCA 230-15, nothing inherent to the test procedure would prevent
testing of a ceiling fan greater than 24 feet. AMCA 230-15 provides
minimum clearances as a function of blade span, and does not specify an
upper limit on blade span. Second, DOE received confirmation that AMCA
has a test facility capable of testing ceiling fans with blade spans
substantially larger than 24 feet, according to the minimum clearances
specified in AMCA 230-15.
DOE seeks comment on its proposal to remove the 24-foot blade span
limit in section 3.4.1 of appendix U, which would expand the scope of
the test procedure for LDCFs to ceiling fans with blade span larger
than 24 feet.
DOE was made aware that AMCA 230-15 was inconsistent in its
conversion of measurements to standard air density. Whereas calculated
thrust is converted to standard air density (section 9.3 of AMCA 230-
15), electric input power is not. Thrust (which is used to determine
airflow in cubic feet per minute (CFM)) and electric input power are
inputs to the CFEI metric described in AMCA 208-18. Therefore, without
the correction, the same fan can have different values for CFEI
depending on the density of the air where the fan is being tested. On
May 5, 2021, AMCA made a correction to address the inconsistency in the
industry standard in the form of a technical errata sheet for AMCA 230-
15. The technical errata sheet details that the corrections listed in
the errata sheet apply to all copies of AMCA 230-15. Accordingly, in
this SNOPR, DOE clarifies that the technical errata sheet applies to
AMCA 230-15, which is currently incorporated by reference in 10 CFR
430.3(b)(4).
C. Belt-Driven Ceiling Fans
Section 1.3 of appendix U defines a belt-driven ceiling fan as ``a
ceiling fan with a series of one or more fan heads, each driven by a
belt connected to one or more motors that are located outside of the
fan head.'' Moreover, in section 2 of appendix U, DOE excludes belt-
driven ceiling fans from the scope of the test procedure.
In response to the May 2021 RFI, DOE received a number of comments
recommending including certain belt-driven ceiling fans within the
scope of the test procedure. Specifically, BAF commented that a new
type of belt-driven ceiling fan has come onto the market since the last
final rule that uses larger motors and has higher tip speeds (above
5000 feet per minute, or fpm). (BAF, EERE-2021-BT-STD-0011, No. 14 at
p. 2). AMCA also commented that a new type of belt-driven fan has come
onto the market with a larger motor (1
[[Page 69552]]
to 3 hp) and higher tip speeds (5000 to 6000 fpm). (AMCA, EERE-2021-BT-
STD-0011, No. 9 at p. 2) BAF recommends that this new variety of belt-
driven fans be tested according to AMCA 230-15/AMCA 208. (BAF, EERE-
2021-BT-STD-0011, No. 14 at p. 2). AMCA recommended separating belt-
driven fans into two classes--high-speed and low-speed--and to test
high-speed belt-driven fans according to ANSI/AMCA Standard 230-15,
including the technical erratum sheet published by AMCA on May 5, 2021.
(AMCA, EERE-2021-BT-STD-0011, No. 9 at p. 4; see also BAF, EERE-2021-
BT-STD-0011, No. 14 at p. 2)
In the July 2016 Final Rule, DOE discussed that DOE would not
propose standards for belt-driven ceiling fans due to the limited
number of basic models and lack of available data. 81 FR 48619, 48622.
During the last rulemaking, DOE's review of the belt-driven ceiling fan
market at the time suggested that these fans are used in bars and
restaurants that have decorative ceilings with limited electrical boxes
on the ceiling to mount multiple conventional ceiling fans. In
addition, DOE noted that the observed belt-driven ceiling fans were
highly customizable, in that consumers can decide on the number of fan
heads and the kind of fan belts to use. At the time, because these
individual fan heads could not be isolated in testing, they could not
be testing according to appendix U as written and were thus exempted.
(See Chapter 3 of the November 2016 Energy Conservation Standards Final
Rule Technical Support Document \14\). While DOE did not establish a
test procedure for these fans, DOE noted that it would be investigating
appropriate test procedures for belt-driven ceiling fans. 81 FR 48619,
48622.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\14\ Found at: www.regulations.gov/document/EERE-2012-BT-STD-0045-0149.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Since the last rulemaking and based on comments received, DOE has
identified higher speed, belt-driven ceiling fans on the market,
intended for industrial and commercial applications. DOE conducted
market research and found that these fans were typically single-head
fans housed in a cage, frequently mounted to the ceiling by straps or
brackets as opposed to the traditional downrod. They were marketed for
a variety of industrial applications such as agriculture, warehouses,
and factories. Like other belt-driven fans, the motors typically exist
outside of the housing for the fan, but still located within the cage.
However, unlike other belt-driven ceiling fans, they are not
customizable, and the fan head can be isolated for testing. DOE notes
that, in contrast to the low-speed multiple head belt-driven ceiling
fans, these designs allow single-head belt-driven ceiling fans to be
tested using current test procedures in appendix U. Therefore, DOE
proposes to include these higher speed single-head belt-driven ceiling
fans within the scope of the test procedure, as long as these fans meet
the proposed amended ceiling fan definition.
To distinguish these high-speed belt-driven ceiling fans with one
fan head from other low-speed, multiple head belt-driven ceiling fans,
DOE proposes the following definition:
High-speed belt-driven (HSBD) ceiling fan means a small-diameter
ceiling fan that is a belt-driven ceiling fan with one fan head, and
has tip speeds greater than or equal to 5000 feet per minute.
DOE preliminarily concludes that 5000 fpm may be an appropriate
threshold based on recommendations from the commenters. However, DOE is
considering other thresholds that may be appropriate for the proposed
definition.
DOE seeks comment on including within the test procedure scope HSBD
ceiling fans, the proposed term and definition, and the appropriate tip
speed threshold. Furthermore, DOE requests data on blade thickness and
tip speeds for these HSBD ceiling fans.
Further, DOE observed at least one belt-driven ceiling fan that has
a marketed blade span greater than 7 feet. DOE proposes to include such
ceiling fans in the test procedure scope. To separate these ceiling
fans from the proposed HSBD ceiling fan scope, DOE proposes the
following definition:
Large-diameter belt-driven (LDBD) ceiling fan means a belt-driven
ceiling fan with one fan head that has a represented value of blade
span, as determined in 10 CFR 429.32(a)(3)(i), greater than seven feet.
Within this definition, DOE proposes to incorporate the
specification for the represented value of blade span as proposed in
the September 2019 NOPR. 84 FR 51440, 51450.
DOE seeks comment on including within the test procedure scope LDBD
ceiling fans, and the proposed definition.
Alternatively, DOE may consider a combined term and definition for
all belt-driven ceiling fans that meet the above scope of HSBD and LDBD
ceiling fans. Specifically, DOE could remove the ``small-diameter''
part of the aforementioned HSBD definition. By removing ``small-
diameter'' in the definition, the alternate HSBD definition should
accommodate belt-driven ceiling fans with blade spans greater than
seven feet. DOE alternatively proposes that the term high-speed belt-
driven ceiling fan reads as follows:
High-speed belt-driven ceiling fan (HSBD) means a ceiling fan that
is a belt-driven ceiling fan with one fan head, and has tip speeds
greater than or equal to 5000 feet per minute.
DOE seeks comment on the alternate definition for HSBD ceiling
fans, and whether it would incorporate all the LDBD ceiling fans from
DOE's primary proposal. Further, DOE requests comment on whether the
HSBD and LDBD ceiling fan scope should be combined, i.e., what is the
utility and application of the two fan categories.
In conversations with manufacturers, DOE learned that the HSBD
ceiling fans and LDBD ceiling fans move significantly more air than
HSSD ceiling fans and as such, these fans could be difficult to test
under the small-diameter ceiling fan test procedure (i.e., using sensor
arm setup) due to the possibility of inducing vortexes in the smaller
testing room.\15\ Typically, HSSD fans use a fractional horsepower
(i.e., less than 1 horsepower) direct-drive motor. By contrast, these
HSBD ceiling fans and LDBD ceiling fans use a much larger motor, often
in excess of 1 horsepower (``HP''), to spin with much higher tip
speeds.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\15\ Vortexes in the testing room creates highly turbulent air
flow that revolves around an axis and can move at differing speeds
depending on the air distance from the vortex center of rotation.
These swirling and turbulent air flows would make it difficult for
the air velocity sensors used in the small-diameter ceiling fan test
procedure to meet the stability criteria.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
DOE received comments from two stakeholders on testing these fans
to AMCA 230-15. Both BAF and AMCA also recommended testing all high-
speed belt-driven fans according to appendix U corrected, i.e., ANSI/
AMCA Standard 230-15. (AMCA, EERE-2021-BT-STD-0011, No. 9 at p. 4; see
also BAF, EERE-2021-BT-STD-0011, No. 14 at p. 2) Therefore, DOE
proposes to test both HSBD ceiling fans and LDBD ceiling fans according
to AMCA 230-15. DOE proposes to specify that HSBD ceiling fans and LDBD
ceiling fans be tested using the test apparatus in appendix U, section
3.4, which references AMCA 230-15.\16\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\16\ AMCA 208-18 includes the calculation method for the fan
energy index (FEI). AMCA-208 references several other test methods
for calculation of fan air performance, depending on the fan type,
including AMCA 230-15. Both AMCA 208-18 and AMCA 230-15 are
referenced in appendix U.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
DOE requests comment on requiring AMCA 230-15 as the test procedure
for
[[Page 69553]]
HSBD and LDBD ceiling fans, or whether DOE should consider any other
test procedure.
While some of the HSBD ceiling fans and LDBD ceiling fans are
advertised as being capable of variable speed operation, and sold with
a variable speed drive, others are advertised as only capable of single
speed operation. For HSBD and LDBD ceiling fans capable of only single
speed operation, DOE proposes that both HSBD and LDBD ceiling fans be
tested only at high speed operation. For HSBD and LDBD ceiling fans
capable of variable speed operation, DOE proposes that HSBD and LDBD
ceiling fans also be tested at high speed operation and 40 percent
speed.
DOE requests comment on its proposal to test single speed HSBD and
LDBD ceiling fans only at high speed and variable speed HSBD and LDBD
ceiling fans at high speed and 40 percent speed. Alternatively, DOE
requests comment on the typical number of operating speeds and hours
for HSBD ceiling fans and LDBD ceiling fans.
As stated previously, the quantity of air moved by HSBD ceiling
fans and LDBD ceiling fans is significantly greater than HSSD ceiling
fans on the market and more similar to the max airflow (or CFM) of
large-diameter ceiling fans. Therefore, DOE proposes that the
efficiency metric for both HSBD ceiling fans and LDBD ceiling fans be
CFEI, consistent with large-diameter ceiling fans. Therefore, DOE is
proposing to modify the language in appendix U, section 3.5 to specify
that for HSBD ceiling fans and/or LDBD ceiling fans capable of only
single speed operation, the CFEI should be calculated only at high
speed. Similarly, DOE is proposing that for large-diameter, HDBD, and
LDBD ceiling fans the CFEI be calculated at high speed and 40 percent
speed.
Alternatively, DOE is also considering the small-diameter ceiling
fan metric, CFM/W, for HSBD ceiling fans and/or LDBD ceiling-fans. If
DOE were to consider a CFM/W metric, DOE would need to account for the
number of operating hours in active mode and the number of hours at
each operating speed. DOE would also need data on the number of hours
in standby mode.
DOE requests comment on whether the efficiency of HDBD ceiling fans
and LDBD ceiling fans is more appropriately evaluated using the CFEI or
CFM/W metric.
D. Standby Power Metric for Large-Diameter Ceiling Fans
As discussed previously, the Energy Act of 2020 specifies that
LDCFs are no longer required to meet minimum ceiling fan efficiency
requirements in terms of the ratio of total airflow to total power
consumption, CFM/W, as established in the January 2017 Final Rule. (See
also 42 U.S.C. 6295(ff)(6)(C)(i)(I)) Instead, Congress established
separate minimum efficiency standards for two distinct modes of LDCF
operation. (42 U.S.C. 6295(ff)(6)(C)(i)(II)) Specifically, Congress
defined standards based on a CFEI at high speed, and at 40 percent
speed or the nearest speed that is not less than 40 percent speed. Id.
The Energy Act of 2020 amendments to EPCA explain that ``CFEI'' means
the Fan Energy Index for large-diameter ceiling fans, and that it is
calculated in accordance with ANSI/AMCA Standard 208-18 titled
``Calculation of the Fan Energy Index'', with the following
modifications: Using an Airflow Constant (Q0) of 26,500
cubic feet per minute; using a Pressure Constant (P0) of
0.0027 inches water gauge; and using a Fan Efficiency Constant
([eta]0) of 42 percent. (42 U.S.C. 6295(ff)(6)(C)(ii))
Whereas the CFM/W metric incorporated active mode and standby mode into
a single metric, the new CFEI metric, adopted in the Energy Act of
2020, incorporates only active mode, without accounting for standby
mode.
EPCA requires amended test procedures and energy conservation
standards to incorporate standby mode and off mode energy use.\17\ (42
U.S.C. 6295(gg)(2) and (3)) Amended test procedures must integrate
standby mode and off mode energy consumption into the overall energy
efficiency, energy consumption, or other energy descriptor, unless the
current test procedures for a covered product already incorporate
standby mode and off mode energy consumption, or such an integrated
test procedure is technically infeasible, in which case the Secretary
shall prescribe a separate standby mode and off mode energy use test
procedure for the covered product, if technically feasible. (42 U.S.C.
6295(gg)(2)(A))
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\17\ EPCA defines ``standby mode'' as the condition in which an
energy-using product: Is connected to a main power source, and
offers one or more of the following user-oriented or protective
functions: (1) The ability to facilitate the activation or
deactivation of other functions (including active mode) by remote
switch (including remote control), internal sensor, or timer; and
(2) continuous functions, including information or status displays
(including clocks), or sensor-based functions. (42 U.S.C.
6295(gg)(1)(A)(iii)) ``Off mode'' is the condition in which the
ceiling fan is connected to a main power source and is not providing
any standby or active mode function. (42 U.S.C. 6295(gg)(1)(A)(ii))
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
DOE has initially determined that it would be technically
infeasible to integrate standby power with each of the statutory CFEI
requirements (i.e., high-speed requirement and 40-percent requirement),
such that the integrated metric would be representative of an average
period of use as required by EPCA. (See 42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3)) The two
standards for LDCFs established by Congress require measurement of
energy efficiency at two separate modes of operation, both of which
occur during active mode (i.e., operation of the fan at high speed, and
operation of the fan at 40 percent speed or the nearest speed that is
not less than 40 percent speed). Each energy efficiency measurement, by
itself, does not fully represent active mode energy efficiency (and
even a combination of the two may not fully represent active mode).
Standby mode is a distinct mode from either of the segments of
active mode for which energy efficiency is measured. If an LDCF is
consuming energy, but not operating in active mode, it is operating in
either standby mode or off mode.\18\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\18\ Consistent with the discussion in the October 2014 test
procedure NOPR for ceiling fans, DOE's research continues to suggest
that there is no off mode power consumption for ceiling fans, so DOE
is not proposing an off-mode power efficiency metric or off mode
testing. See 79 FR 62522, 62524 (Oct. 17, 2014).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Given that, as previously discussed, each metric required by the
Energy Act of 2020 does not fully account for active mode energy use/
efficiency, neither metric would be appropriately representative if
integrated with standby mode operation because the resulting metric
would capture a portion of active mode energy and the total standby
energy use. Such an integrated metric would not be representative of an
average period of use. Further, were standby power integrated into the
measurements required for both LDCF standards, the same standby energy
use would be represented twice--once with the integrated high-speed
metric and once with the integrated 40-percent metric. The standby mode
energy use could be scaled to the active mode energy use for the
corresponding LDCF standard, but under such a metric, standby mode
energy use would not be fully captured. Even if both LDCF standards
were integrated with a scaled standby energy use, the total standby
mode energy use may not be captured because the measurements for the
two LCDF standards may not represent the complete active mode
operation.
For the reasons discussed in the preceding paragraphs, DOE is
proposing a separate metric for standby mode energy use.
Specifically, DOE proposes for the test method for power
consumption in
[[Page 69554]]
standby mode already established in section 3.6 of appendix U to remain
applicable to LCDFs. The standby mode test method measures standby
power in watts and is based on IEC standard 62301:2011, with
modifications to reduce test burden by reducing the interval of time
over which testing occurs as well as the period of time required prior
to standby testing.
DOE notes that no standby standard is currently applicable to LDCFs
and that were DOE to adopt the proposed standby test procedure and
metric for LDCFs, manufacturers would not be required to test to that
provision until such time as compliance is required with an energy
conservation standard for standby mode, should such a standard be
established.
DOE seeks comment on its preliminary determination that
establishing an integrated metric that incorporates the energy
efficiency measured as required under each LCDF standard and the energy
use measured during standby mode would be technically infeasible.
DOE seeks comment on its proposal to specify for LDCFs a separate
standby mode energy use metric, which would be based on the standby
power procedure defined in section 3.6 of appendix U.
DOE also notes that if a CFEI standard is established for HSBD
ceiling fans and LDBD ceiling fans, as is being proposed in this SNOPR,
a separate standby mode energy use metric would need to be established.
Similar to the LDCFs, DOE proposes for the test method for power
consumption in standby mode already established in section 3.6 of
appendix U to be applicable to HSBD ceiling fans and/or LDBD ceiling
fans. The standby mode test method measures standby power in watts and
is based on IEC standard 62301:2011, with modifications to reduce test
burden by reducing the interval of time over which testing occurs as
well as the period of time required prior to standby testing.
Alternatively, were DOE to decide that a CFM/W metric is more
appropriate for HSBD and LDBD ceiling fans, DOE proposes that the
standby power would be incorporated into the CFM/W metric, similar to
other small-diameter ceiling fans, and would be calculated according to
section 3.6 of appendix U.
DOE seeks comment on its proposal to specify for HSBD ceiling fans
and LDBD ceiling fans a separate standby mode energy use metric, which
would be based on the standby power procedure defined in section 3.6 of
appendix U.
E. Low-Speed Definition
Section 1.12 of appendix U defines low speed to mean ``the lowest
available ceiling fan speed, i.e., the fan speed corresponding to the
minimum, non-zero, blade RPM.''
In the September 2019 NOPR, DOE described that through round robin
testing and industry inquiry, DOE is aware that the lowest available
fan speed on some ceiling fans provides an extremely low rotation rate,
leading to atypically low airflow. 84 FR 51440, 51446. Because of the
extremely low rotation rate and atypically low airflow consumers are
unlikely to use such a setting to circulate air. It is expected that
such a low fan speed is provided for aesthetic purposes; for example,
one such product advertises the lowest speed as helping to maintain a
``calm atmosphere.'' \19\ For such products, the lowest speed available
on the ceiling fan is not representative of the lowest speed for that
product that can provide ``circulation of air''.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\19\ See example product brochure at https://www.lowes.com/pd/Hunter-52-in-Indoor-Multi-position-Ceiling-Fan-with-Light-Kit-5-Blade/1270423 which discusses the fan's ``serenity speed''.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
In addition to not being representative of a speed that can
circulate air, DOE has observed through round robin testing that
requiring testing at the ``lowest available speed'' on such products
creates added test burden because laboratories have difficulty meeting
the stability criteria \20\ despite routinely achieving stability for
other fans (without such extremely low speed settings). 84 FR 51440,
51446-51447. Accordingly, in the September 2019 NOPR, DOE stated that
it is considering modifying the definition of low speed. Specifically,
DOE suggested defining the low speed for the purpose of testing as the
lowest available ceiling fan speed for which fewer than half or three,
whichever is fewer, sensors on any individual axis are measuring less
than 30 feet per minute (``FPM''). In conjunction, DOE considered
providing explicit instructions in the test procedure to start at the
lowest speed and move to the next highest speed until the modified low
speed criteria are met. DOE requested comment on this modification. 84
FR 51440, 51447
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\20\ Section 3.3.2(1) of Appendix U defines the stability
criteria for airflow. Airflow is considered stable if the average
air velocity for all axes for each sensor varies by less than 5%
compared to the average air velocity measured for that same sensor
in a successive set of air velocity measurements.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
In response to the September 2019 NOPR, ALA, AMCA, BAF, Hunter and
Ransom supported DOE's proposal to redefine low speed. (ALA, No. 34 at
p. 3; AMCA, No. 33 at p. 8; BAF No. 36 at p. 2; Hunter No. 29 at p. 4;
Ransom, No. 35 at p. 1) During the public meeting, AMCA discussed how
low speed in a residential setting sometimes serves as a different
function for the consumer than the movement and recirculation of air
(i.e., ``serenity mode'') and measuring this speed under the current
test procedure is erratic and can end up being a non-qualifying test.
(AMCA, Public Meeting Transcript at p. 52-53) Westinghouse also was
generally supportive of the proposal. (Westinghouse, Public Meeting
Transcript at p. 57) Ransom suggested that adding an exception for fans
with ``serenity modes'' \21\ would benefit manufacturers in
applications where this aesthetic is desired. (Ransom, No. 35 at p. 1)
ALA and Hunter commented that the ``serenity'' features satisfy a
consumer aesthetic desire or provide decorative utility. (ALA, No. 34
at p. 4; Hunter No. 29 at p. 4) In response to DOE's suggested
definition in the September 2019 NOPR, ALA commented that ``low speed''
should be defined as ``the lowest available ceiling fan speed for which
fewer than half or three, whichever is fewer, sensors on any individual
axis are measuring less than 40 FPM, rather than 30 FPM.'' (ALA, No. 34
at p. 3) BAF also suggested 40 FPM as the lowest speed at which draft
begins to be felt at the occupant level. (BAF, Public Meeting
Transcript at p. 61)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\21\ DOE interprets ``serenity mode'' as the speed with an
extremely low rotation rate, leading to a typically low airflow.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
The current definition of low speed could require testing LSSD
ceiling fans and VSD ceiling fans that also meet the definition of an
LSSD fan at a speed with an extremely low rotation rate, which
consumers are unlikely to use to circulate air. Rather, as suggested by
Hunter and ALA, this speed is used more for a consumer aesthetic
desire, as indicated by this speed being advertised as helping to
maintain a ``calm atmosphere.'' For such products, the low speed as
defined for the purpose of the current DOE test procedure is not
representative of the low speed required for ``circulation of
air''.\22\ Further, as observed through round robin testing and as
discussed previously, requiring testing at the ``lowest available
speed''
[[Page 69555]]
would be overly burdensome to test because laboratories have trouble
meeting the stability criteria.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\22\ DOE has proposed to define circulating air as ``the
discharge of air in an upward or downward direction with the air
returning to the intake side of the fan. A ceiling fan that has a
ratio of fan blade span (in inches) to maximum rotation rate (in
revolutions per minute) greater than 0.06 provides circulating
air.'' The extremely low rotation rates described in this section
provide insufficient air movement for the discharge of air to return
to the intake side of the fan.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
For the September 2019 NOPR, DOE initially developed the 30 FPM
threshold by identifying the threshold below which several common
varieties of air velocity sensors could no longer meet the test
procedure accuracy and stability requirements. 84 FR 51440, 51447.
However, DOE had also stated in the September 2019 NOPR that ceiling
fans with low speeds that produce air velocities lower than 40 FPM may
have trouble meeting the stability criteria. 84 FR 51440, 51446. As
noted, section 3.2 of appendix U specifies that air velocity sensors
must have an accuracy within 5% of reading or 2 FPM,
whichever is greater. In further reviewing these accuracy requirements,
DOE notes that the 2 FPM accuracy tolerance can be determined by
multiplying the 5 percent accuracy requirement with 40 FPM, indicating
that an air velocity threshold of 40 FPM, rather than 30 FPM, would
better align with these established stability criteria. Furthermore,
for the September 2019 NOPR proposal of a 30 FPM threshold, DOE had not
evaluated every sensor used by laboratories and considered the
commenters' proposals to use a 40 FPM threshold to be more
representative based on industry experience.
For the reasons discussed, DOE proposes to amend the low-speed
definition as follows:
Low speed means the lowest available ceiling fan speed for which
fewer than half or three, whichever is fewer, sensors per individual
axis are measuring less than 40 feet per minute.
Alternatively, DOE is considering representing the proposed
definition as a table indicating the number of sensors that must
measure >40 FPM, as follows:
Low speed means the lowest available speed that meets the following
criteria:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Number of sensors per individual Number of sensors per individual
axis as determined in section axis measuring 40 feet per minute
3.2.2(6) of Appendix U or greater
------------------------------------------------------------------------
3 2
4 3
5 3
6 4
7 4
8 5
9 6
10 7
11 8
12 9
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Furthermore, DOE proposes to include explicit instructions in the
test procedure to start at the lowest speed and move to the next
highest speed until the modified low speed criteria are met. This would
ensure the identification of the lowest speed of the fan that meets the
proposed low speed definition. DOE understands that most LSSD ceiling
fans have distinct speed settings and would be able to accommodate this
proposal.
DOE expects that this proposed amendment would reduce the total
test time per unit for low speed tests for a subset of LSSD ceiling
fans. Under the current test procedure, the low speeds in question
would likely require laboratories to run tests for a long period
(potentially the full duration of the laboratories' local operating
procedures limit) before achieving the necessary stability criteria
requirements. The proposed alternate test method could mitigate the
occurrence of these long test runs. DOE estimates that manufacturers of
LSSD ceiling fans that conduct testing in-house could save
approximately 60 minutes in per unit testing time due to the new low
speed criteria.
DOE does not expect this amendment to require retesting or to
change measured efficiency for the majority of LSSD ceiling fans.
However, for the small subset of LSSD ceiling fans for which the lowest
speed is at an extremely low rotation rate and provides a low airflow,
retesting may be required if the lowest speed does not meet the
proposed definition of low speed. In the instances under the proposal
for which testing at the next highest speed were to be required,
testing at the next highest speed would likely result in increased
power consumption, but it would also result in increased airflow. The
resulting ceiling fan efficiency is calculated by weighting the airflow
and power consumption results from the high speed test (which is not
proposed to be amended) with the low speed test, resulting in a
weighted average CFM/W (Equation 1, Appendix U). Because the measured
efficiency is a ratio of airflow and power consumption and testing at
the next highest speed would result in an increase in airflow as well
as power consumption, DOE expects the low speed proposal to have
insignificant effect on ceiling fan efficiency for the applicable
subset of LSSD ceiling fans.
The potential cost and cost saving impacts of this proposal are
discussed in section III.K.1.a. of this document.
DOE seeks comment on the proposal to update the low speed
definition as follows: Low speed means the lowest available ceiling fan
speed for which fewer than half or three, whichever is fewer, sensors
per individual axis are measuring less than 40 feet per minute.
DOE also seeks comment on the alternate proposal to represent low
speed as a table specifying the number of sensors per individual axis
required to measure greater than 40 feet per minute.
DOE seeks comment on the proposal to require testing to start at
the lowest speed and move to the next highest speed until the modified
low speed criteria are met. Specifically, DOE seeks comment on whether
any applicable variable speed LSSD ceiling fans (without distinct speed
settings) would require further specificity on this proposal and if so,
how it should be specified.
Hunter, ALA, BAF and AMCA further commented that if either tested
fan sample (per DOE sampling requirements) has a lowest-speed setting
that does not meet the definition of low speed under this proposal,
both samples should be tested at the next highest speed. (Hunter, No.
29 at p. 4; ALA, No. 34 at p. 3; BAF, No. 36 at p. 2; AMCA, No. 33 at
p. 8) DOE requires that ceiling fan representation must be based on
sampling requirements prescribed at 10 CFR 429.11, which specifies that
the minimum number of units tested shall be no less than two. 10 CFR
429.32. Testing of ceiling fans must be conducted according to Appendix
U, which as proposed, would require determining the setting that meets
the definition of low speed individually for each of the units in the
sample, if applicable. As discussed previously, 40 FPM is
representative of the low speed required for ``circulation of air''. To
the extent that there is any variation within the sample of fans for a
basic model, determining the setting that meets the definition of low
speed individually for each unit in the sample would correspond to how
each unit in the sample would be operating during a representative
average use cycle.
DOE requests comment on the extent to which, for DOE certification
purposes, an individual unit within a sample of fans (per basic model)
could have a different setting that meets the proposed definition of
low speed than other units within the same sample. If so, DOE requests
data on how the issue could affect representativeness (in terms of
ceiling fan efficiency) of the basic model.
F. Sensor Arm Setups
To record air velocity readings, Section 3.3.2 of appendix U
prescribes two setups for taking airflow measurements along four
perpendicular axes (designated A, B, C, and D): A single rotating
sensor arm or four fixed sensor arms. If using a single rotating sensor
arm, airflow readings are first measured on Axis A, followed by
[[Page 69556]]
successive measurements on Axes B, C, and D. If using four fixed sensor
arms, the readings for all four axes are measured simultaneously. See
Steps 4 and 5 of section 3.3.2(2) of appendix U. The team has observed
that valid results are generally attained more quickly using the four-
arm setup because measurements are taken simultaneously in all four
axes and stability can be achieved in fewer runs (i.e., a complete set
of air velocity measurements for all axes). However, a four-arm setup
is more expensive because it requires at least 4 times as many sensors.
This setup is typically used by laboratories that primarily test LSSD
fans (which require low airflow to be measured) or laboratories that
test large quantities of fans, for which a faster throughput is
important. A single-arm setup is less expensive and is typically used
by laboratories that test mostly high-speed ceiling fans or test very
few ceiling fans.
The single-arm setup requires the rotation of the arm every 100
seconds, which disrupts the air, often increasing the time to achieve
stability. Assuming it takes 3 cycles to reach stability for the low-
speed test (i.e., average air velocity across all sensors for cycles 2
and 3 meet the stability criteria), the test length would be around 16
minutes for the four fixed arm unit and around 41 minutes for the
single rotating arm unit.\23\ During round robin testing, DOE personnel
noted that laboratories using the single rotating sensor arm waited
approximately 30 seconds for arm vibration to dissipate before starting
data collection at the new position, adding a minimum of 1 minute 30
seconds to each test cycle.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\23\ These time frames were determined in the round robin
report, found in the rulemaking docket EERE-2013-BT-TP-0050.
www.regulations.gov/docket/EERE-2013-BT-TP-0050.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
During round-robin testing, laboratories with single-arm setups
were able to achieve stability for 75 percent of fans tested, as
compared to 96 percent for laboratories using four-arm setups.
To address stability issues in a single-arm setup, DOE proposes,
based on observations from the round robin testing, to provide explicit
instruction for setups that require arm rotation to stabilize the arm
and allow 30 seconds between test runs for any residual turbulence to
dissipate prior to data collection after each rotation. While this
additional instruction would increase testing time of each axis, based
on observation through round robin testing, DOE has initially
determined that this requirement could further contribute to more
accurate and stable airflow measurements during testing. In some cases,
this could reduce overall testing time by avoiding the need to retest
to meet the required air velocity stability criteria (section 3.3.2(1)
of appendix U).
As an alternative to the single- and four-arm setup options, DOE
also proposes to allow laboratories to rely on test setups with two
arms, so that the system would need to be rotated only once to collect
data for all four axes. A two-arm setup would require less time to
collect the necessary data than a 1-arm setup and would therefore
reduce testing burden for laboratories currently using a 1-arm setup.
It would also require fewer sensors than a four-arm setup, and could
therefore provide a cost-effective approach to achieve stability
conditions more easily at low speed. DOE proposes to amend sections
3.2.2(4) and 3.3.2 of appendix U to accommodate the use of a two-arm
setup.
DOE seeks comment on the proposed requirement to add 30 seconds
between test runs for a rotating arm setup (either single-arm or two-
arm).
DOE seeks comment on its proposal to permit the use of a two-arm
setup, as well as any data to confirm that a 2-arm option produces
comparable results to the existing 1-arm and 4-arm options.
G. Air Velocity Sensor Mounting Angle
Section 3.2.2 of appendix U does not specify the applicable
mounting angle of the sensors on the sensor arm.
Air velocity is most accurately measured by aligning the velocity
sensor perpendicular to the airflow path, as this is the orientation
for which the airflow through the openings of the sensor is smooth and
free of turbulence. However, during recent round robin testing, the
team noted that some air velocity sensors were not aligned
perpendicular to the path of airflow. A misaligned velocity sensor
could produce inaccurate air velocity measurements. Therefore, to
ensure consistent air velocity alignment, DOE proposes to include
explicit instructions in section 3.2.2(6) of appendix U to align the
air velocity sensors perpendicular to the direction of airflow. DOE
could also consider updating Figure 2 of appendix U (which would be
renumbered as Figure 3 in this proposal), or adding a new figure, to
depict more clearly the alignment of the velocity sensors perpendicular
to the direction of airflow.
DOE requests comment on its proposal to specify aligning the air
velocity sensors perpendicular to the airflow. DOE also requests
comment on whether it should revise Figure 2 of appendix U, and/or
provide an additional figure, to depict more clearly the alignment of
the velocity sensors perpendicular to the direction of airflow.
H. Instructions To Measure Blade Thickness
Sections 1.8 and 1.13 in appendix U incorporate a fan blade
thickness threshold of 3.2 mm within the definitions of HSSD ceiling
fan and LSSD ceiling fan, respectively. Blade edge thickness is used to
distinguish product classes because it relates to safety considerations
that, in turn, relate to where a ceiling fan is likely to be installed.
Commercial and industrial ceiling fans are typically installed in
locations with higher ceilings, and therefore thin leading edges on the
blades do not present the safety hazard that thin leading edges would
present on ceiling fans that are installed at lower heights, i.e.,
residential ceiling fans.
Appendix U currently does not provide instruction for how to
measure fan blade thickness. In the September 2019 NOPR, DOE proposed
that blade edge thickness for small diameter fans be measured at the
leading edge of the fan blade (i.e., the edge in the forward direction)
with an instrument having a measurement resolution of at least a tenth
of an inch. DOE also proposed the following instructions for measuring
blade edge thickness to ensure test procedure reproducibility, given
potential variations in blade characteristics: (1) Measure at the point
at which the blade is thinnest along the radial length of the fan blade
and is greater than or equal to one inch from the tip of the fan blade,
and (2) Measure one inch from the leading edge of the fan blade. 84 FR
51440, 51450.
DOE has subsequently become aware of a ``rolled-edge'' blade design
on a residential ceiling fan for which the thickness of the body of the
blade is less than 3.2 mm, but that has a curled shape along the
leading edge, with the curl having an outer thickness greater than 3.2
mm. For such a rolled-edge blade, the blade thickness measurement
procedure proposed in the September 2019 NOPR would indicate a ``thin
blade'' despite the thicker leading edge, resulting in the fan being
classified as an HSSD, which as discussed are generally non-residential
fans. Conversely, measuring the thickness at the rolled edge (less than
one inch from the leading edge) would result in the fan being
classified as an LSSD, which are generally residential fans. In order
to measure blade thickness for ``rolled-edge,'' flat, tapered, and
other ceiling fan blade types in a manner that will consistently
classify ceiling fans with
[[Page 69557]]
these blade types into the right product class, DOE is proposing to
update the proposal for measuring blade thickness as follows: (1)
Locate the cross section perpendicular to the fan blade's radial
length, that is at least one inch from the tip of the fan blade and for
which the blade is thinnest, and (2) measure the thickest point of that
cross section within one inch from the leading edge of the fan blade.
DOE expects that this proposal would result in ceiling fans with
``rolled-edge'' blade designs being assigned to the appropriate product
class, while having minimal effect on the blade thickness measurement
of other blade types relative to the proposal in the September 2019
NOPR.
DOE seeks comment on its proposal to measure ceiling fan blade
thickness at the thickest point within 1'' of the blade's leading edge,
along the plane perpendicular to the blade's radial length at which the
blade is thinnest. Specifically, DOE seeks feedback on if this update
will prevent ceiling fans from being incorrectly classified into the
wrong product class. DOE also welcomes feedback on if the blade
thickness should be measured within 1'' of the leading edge, or if the
allowable thickness measurement zone should be restricted to closer to
the leading edge (e.g., within \1/2\'' or \1/4\'' of the leading edge).
I. Specifications for Ceiling Fans With Accessories
Sections 3.3.1 (``Test conditions to be followed when testing'')
and 3.5.1 of appendix U, require that a ceiling fan's heater and light
kit be installed, but not energized during the power consumption
measurement. These provisions are in place to include any impact these
accessories might have on airflow, but prevent any reduction of the
measured airflow efficiency that would result from including power
consumption that does not relate to the ceiling fan's ability to
circulate air. Beyond heaters and light kits, an increasing number of
ceiling fan models on the market contain other features, such as air
ionization and ultraviolet technology, that do not relate to the
ceiling fan's ability to circulate air, but that consume power and
therefore could reduce the measured airflow efficiency.
DOE proposes to amend the language in sections 3.3.1 and 3.5.1 in
appendix U to apply more broadly to any additional accessories or
features that do not relate to the ceiling fan's ability to create
airflow by rotation of the fan blades. Specifically, DOE proposes that
such accessories or features must not be energized during testing. If
the accessory or feature cannot be turned off, it shall be set to the
lowest energy-consuming mode during testing. This proposal would
clarify the application of the test procedure to ceiling fans with
accessories or features other than light kits and heaters, while not
incurring additional test costs or burdens. DOE does not expect this
clarification to result in manufacturers having to re-test their
ceiling fans, because DOE expects that manufacturers would have set
such accessory features to their lowest energy-consuming state during
testing.
DOE seeks comment on its proposal to require that testing be
performed without any additional accessories or features energized, if
possible; and if not, with the additional accessories or features set
at the lowest energy-consuming mode for testing.
J. Product Specific Rounding and Enforcement Provisions
1. Airflow (CFM) at High Speed Rounding
In the September 2019 NOPR, DOE proposed amendments to 10 CFR
429.32 to specify that represented values are to be determined
consistent with the test procedures in appendix U and to specify
rounding requirements for represented values. 84 FR 51440, 51450. DOE
proposed represented value and rounding requirements for product-
specific information that was necessary to determine the minimum
allowable ceiling fan efficiency and the proper category of certain
ceiling fans, including blade span, blade RPM, blade edge thickness and
distance between the ceiling and the lowest point on the fan blades. Id
In this SNOPR, DOE is proposing alternate rounding requirements for
blade edge thickness, as discussed in section III.J.2.
DOE notes that airflow (CFM) at high speed is also product-specific
information required to determine product category. Specifically,
airflow (CFM) at high speed is required to determine whether a ceiling
fan is a highly-decorative ceiling fan. While 10 CFR 429.32(a)(2)(i)
already provides the represented value calculation for airflow, neither
that section nor appendix U provides any rounding requirements for
airflow at high speed as it relates to determining whether a ceiling
fan is a highly-decorative ceiling fan. Accordingly, in this SNOPR, DOE
proposes to specify that any represented value of airflow (CFM) at high
speed, including the value used to determine whether a ceiling fan is a
highly-decorative ceiling fan, is determined pursuant to 10 CFR
429.32(a)(2)(i) and rounded to the nearest CFM. Manufacturers are
already required to determine this value if making representations
under the current test procedure for ceiling fans and will be required
to use this value to ensure the products they distribute in commerce
comply with the amended energy conservation standards. Further, the
rounding of airflow to the nearest CFM is consistent with the current
DOE guidance for the Federal Trade Commission (``FTC'') EnergyGuide
label.
DOE seeks comment on its proposal to specify that any represented
value of airflow (CFM) at high speed, including the value used to
determine whether a ceiling fan is a highly-decorative ceiling fan, is
determined pursuant to 10 CFR 429.32(a)(2)(i) and rounded to the
nearest CFM.
2. Blade Edge Thickness Rounding and Tolerance
Appendix U of 10 CFR part 430 currently does not prescribe
measurement tolerances for blade edge thickness. The September 2019
NOPR proposed that blade edge thickness for small-diameter ceiling fans
be measured with an instrument with a measurement resolution of at
least one tenth of an inch. Further, DOE proposed that blade edge
thickness be rounded to the nearest tenth of an inch, effectively
providing a tolerance range of 0.1 in. See 84 FR 51440,
51450-1. This tolerance would enable both tape measures and calipers to
be used for this measurement, which typically have resolutions of 1/32
in (0.03 in) and 0.001 in, respectively. In response to the September
2019 NOPR, ALA and Hunter suggested that blade edge thickness should be
measured with dial calipers only. (Hunter No. 29 at p.5; ALA, No. 34 at
p. 4) Hunter stated that the proposed blade thickness resolution of 0.1
inches is too large and that a tape measure cannot be used, and instead
recommended that the required instrument resolution should be 0.001 in,
with a measurement tolerance of 1/32 in. (Hunter No. 29 at
p. 5)
Upon further consideration, DOE recognizes that a rounding and
tolerance requirement of 0.1 in would not provide
sufficient resolution (i.e. number of digits) to represent fan blade
edge thickness in relation to the 3.2 mm (0.126 in) threshold defined
in Sections 1.8 and 1.13 in appendix U. Based on observation from round
robin testing, DOE understands that most, if not all, laboratories use
calipers to measure blade edge thickness. Accordingly, in this SNOPR,
DOE proposes to require the use of an instrument with a measurement
resolution of at least 0.001 in, and for the blade edge thickness
[[Page 69558]]
measurement to be rounded to the nearest 0.01 in. This effectively
would provide a tolerance range of approximately 0.01 in.
DOE requests comment on the proposed instrument measurement
resolution, rounding and tolerance requirements for blade edge
thickness measurements.
3. Blade RPM Tolerance
For LDCFs, section 3.5(2) of appendix U specifies that when testing
at 40 percent speed for ceiling fans that can operate over an infinite
number of speeds, ensure the average measured RPM is within the greater
of 1% of the average RPM at high speed or 1 RPM. Appendix U does not
prescribe a tolerance for measuring RPM of the high speed itself. In
the September 2019 NOPR, DOE proposed to extend these tolerances to
high speed for all ceiling fans, and to consider the represented blade
RPM at high speed to be valid if the measurement(s) (either the
measured value for a single unit, or the mean of the measured values
for a multiple unit sample, rounded to the nearest RPM) are within the
greater of 1% or 1 RPM of the represented blade RPM at high speed. 84
FR 51440, 51451.
In response, ALA asked DOE to clarify whether the 1 percent
verification measurement would apply only to LDCFs. (ALA, No. 34, at p.
4) Hunter commented that the tolerance of 1 percent is too tight
because too many variables, such as variation in voltage and measuring
equipment, exist between laboratories for manufacturers to be able to
meet this tight tolerance. Hunter suggested that instead, the tolerance
should be increased from 1% to 3%. (Hunter No.
29 at p. 4)
In this SNOPR, DOE further considered the appropriate tolerances
for voltage and measuring equipment variations, recognizing that such
variation directly impacts the blade RPM measurements. For voltage,
section 3.3.1(5)(iii) of appendix U allows the test voltage to vary by
1% throughout the test. For measuring equipment variation,
Appendix U does not specify a required accuracy for tachometers used in
testing. However, the tachometer used by several of the participating
round-robin laboratories has an accuracy of 0.01% of the
reading.\24\ Combining the voltage variation tolerance and equipment
accuracy variation with the September 2019 NOPR proposal of 1%
tolerance of represented blade RPM at high speed would result in an
overall tolerance of 2.01%. Therefore, DOE proposes to
increase the tolerance for blade RPM measurements at high speed from
1% to 2% to account for voltage variation and
equipment resolution.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\24\ The data sheet for the referenced tachometer can be found
here: https://monarchserver.com/Files/pdf/ACT3x_Datasheet_May_19.pdf.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
DOE seeks comment on its proposal to define a tolerance of 2% for
blade RPM measurements at high speed. If other tolerances are
recommended, DOE seeks specific equipment and/or voltage variation data
to justify the recommended tolerance.
4. Represented Values Within Product Class Definitions
In the September 2019 NOPR, DOE proposed updates to the product
class definitions in appendix U to reference the proposed represented
value provisions to specify that the product class for each basic model
is determined using the represented values of blade span, blade RPM,
blade edge thickness, and the distance between the ceiling and the
lowest point on the fan blades. 84 FR 51440, 51450. In reviewing the
September 2019 NOPR proposed updates to the definitions, DOE noted that
the definitions referenced the incorrect regulatory text sections for
the represented values proposed in 10 CFR 429.32. As such, in this
SNOPR, DOE proposes updates to the references within the product class
definitions to reference the appropriate represented value regulatory
text sections.
K. Test Procedure Costs, Harmonization, and Other Topics
1. Test Procedure Costs and Impact
In this SNOPR, DOE proposes to amend the existing test procedure
for ceiling fans by (1) including a definition for ``circulating air''
for the purpose of the ceiling fan definition; (2) expanding test
procedure scope to include large-diameter ceiling fans with a diameter
greater than 24 feet; (3) expanding the test procedure to high-speed
belt-driven ceiling fans and large-diameter belt-driven ceiling fans;
(4) including a provisions for measuring standby energy consumption for
large-diameter ceiling fans; (5) amending the definition for low-speed;
(6) allowing two-arm sensor setup; (7) requiring sensor arm to
stabilize for 30 seconds prior to rotating sensor axes; (8) further
specifying air velocity sensor mounting position; (9) providing
instructions to measure blade thickness; (10) clarifying test
procedures for ceiling fans with accessories; and (11) amending
product-specific rounding and enforcement provisions for ceiling fans
to reflect the most recent amendments to the test procedures and energy
conservation standards for ceiling fans. Additionally, this SNOPR
includes proposed regulatory text from the September 2019 NOPR: (1)
Specifying that VSD ceiling fans that do not also meet the definition
of LSSD fan are not required to be tested pursuant to the DOE test
method; (2) increasing the tolerance for the stability criteria for the
average air velocity measurements for LSSD and VSD ceiling fans; (3)
codifying in regulation existing guidance on the method for calculating
several values reported on the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
EnergyGuide label using results from the ceiling fan test procedures in
Appendix U to subpart B of 10 CFR part 430 and represented values in 10
CFR part 429; and (4) amending product-specific represented value,
rounding and enforcement provisions. 84 FR 51440, 51442. DOE has
tentatively determined that the test procedure as proposed in this
September 2019 NOPR and as modified by this SNOPR will not be unduly
burdensome for manufacturers to conduct.
Further discussion of the cost impacts of the test procedure
amendments are presented in the following paragraphs.
a. Cost Impacts for Scope
As discussed in section III.A and III.B of this SNOPR, DOE is
proposing to define ``circulating air'' to differentiate fans for
``circulating air'' (i.e., ceiling fans) from other products that are
not considered to be a ceiling fan for the purposes of the EPCA
definition for ceiling fans, and include large-diameter ceiling fans
greater than 24 feet in diameter.
Regarding DOE's proposal to include a definition for ``circulating
air,'' DOE identified that certain high-speed VSD ceiling fans with a
diameter-to-maximum operating speed ratio less than 0.06 would be
excluded from the ceiling fan scope. As discussed, VSD ceiling fans
represent less than one percent of the total ceiling fan market.
Furthermore, the segment of VSD ceiling fans that would be excluded
from the ceiling fan scope would represent a portion of the less than
one percent of the market. While the definition as proposed would
likely result in a small cost savings for VSD ceiling fan
manufacturers, DOE conservatively did not include these de minimis cost
savings as part of the cost impact calculations.
Regarding including within the scope of the test procedure large-
diameter ceiling fans greater than 24 feet in diameter, DOE is not
aware of any large diameter ceiling fans greater than 24 feet
commercially available on the market.
[[Page 69559]]
DOE requests comment on the number of ceiling fan models on the
market that are larger than 24 feet, and the associated burden of
testing any ceiling fans larger than 24 feet to the proposed DOE test
procedure in this SNOPR.
b. Cost Impacts for New Belt-Driven Ceiling Fans
Based on DOE's review of literature of manufacturers who make HSBD
and LDBD ceiling fans, DOE identified five manufacturers selling 17
ceiling fan models that are currently not covered by DOE's ceiling fan
test procedure that would be covered by the proposed test procedure
amendments, if finalized. Sixteen of these models fit the criteria for
HSBD ceiling fans and one model fits the definition of LDBD ceiling
fan. Four of these models are capable of variable speed operation while
the remaining 13 are only capable of single speed operation. Based on
third-party lab test cost quotes to test these belt-driven ceiling fans
in accordance with AMCA 230-15, DOE estimates that it would cost
manufacturers approximately $2,670 for a third-party to test one unit
at high speed only and $3,165 to test one unit at both high speed and
40 percent speed. DOE requires at least two units be tested. Therefore,
DOE estimates it would cost manufacturers approximately $5,340 per
basic model capable of only single speed operation and $6,330 per basic
model for multi-speed units. Therefore, DOE estimates that ceiling fan
manufacturers would incur a one-time cost of approximately $94,740 to
conduct testing for the proposed expanded scope of belt-driven ceiling
fans.
DOE requests comment on the per model test cost estimate to test
these expanded scope belt-driven ceiling fans, and the current estimate
of the number of manufacturers and number of models of expanded scope
belt-driven ceiling fans currently made by ceiling fan manufacturers.
c. Cost Impacts for Stability Criteria
This SNOPR includes regulatory text from the September 2019 NOPR
proposing to increase the tolerance for the stability criteria for the
average air velocity measurements of LSSD and VSD ceiling fans that
meet the definition of LSSD ceiling fans at low speed. 84 FR 51440,
51446. DOE had identified cost savings that manufacturers would likely
experience from avoiding the need to purchase additional and more-
costly air velocity sensors to meet the stability criteria required by
the current test procedure. 84 FR 51440, 51453-51454.
To test ceiling fans up to 84 inches in diameter with an air
velocity sensor every 4 inches and in all four axes could require a
manufacturer to purchase, calibrate, and install as many as 45 upgraded
sensors. In this SNOPR, DOE estimates that this investment would be
approximately $50,000 per manufacturer for these upgraded sensors. DOE
estimated that at least two ceiling fan manufacturers have in-house
testing facilities that would have had to invest in upgraded sensors to
meet the stability criteria to comply with the current test procedure.
Therefore, DOE estimates that the industry-wide one-time avoided cost
due to this proposal would be approximately $100,000.
d. Cost Impacts for Low Speed Definition
As discussed in section III.D of this document, DOE is proposing to
amend the low speed definition, which is required to test LSSD ceiling
fans. DOE estimates that this proposal would require retesting a subset
of LSSD ceiling fans. Based on DOE review of DOE's Compliance
Certification Database (``CCD''), DOE identified 3,427 unique basic
models of LSSD ceiling fans. Additionally, DOE estimated that there are
1,003 unique basic models of LSSD ceiling fans with more than three
speed settings. DOE conservatively estimates that approximately 10
percent of LSSD ceiling fans with more than three speed settings, 100
unique basic models, would be affected by the proposed low speed
definition and would have to be retested in active mode using the
proposed low speed definition, if finalized. Further, DOE estimates
that the test procedure for LSSD ceiling fans will cost $1,500 on
average per basic model active mode test. Therefore, DOE estimates that
ceiling fan manufacturers would incur a one-time cost of approximately
$150,000 to conduct retesting for the proposed low speed definition.
e. Cost Impacts for Other Test Procedure Amendments
DOE does not anticipate that the remainder of the amendments
proposed in this SNOPR and the September 2019 NOPR would impact test
costs.
The proposal to allow a two-arm sensor setup is in addition to the
single-arm and four-arm setup already allowed in Appendix U. The
proposal to require that the sensor arm to stabilize for an extra 30
seconds before moving axes should allow for more accurate air velocity
measurements, resulting in less number of repetitions to meet the
stability requirement in section 3.3.2 (1) of Appendix U. The proposals
to specify air velocity sensor mounting position, measure blade
thickness and testing for ceiling fans with accessories are
clarifications.
DOE requests comment on the specific costs and cost savings
identified regarding the proposed amendments to the scope, stability
criteria, and low speed definition. Additionally, DOE requests comment
on any other potential costs or costs savings not identified that
ceiling fan manufacturers may incur as a result of the proposed test
procedure amendments.
2. Harmonization With Industry Standards
DOE's established practice is to adopt relevant industry standards
as DOE test procedures unless such methodology would be unduly
burdensome to conduct or would not produce test results that reflect
the energy efficiency, energy use, water use (as specified in EPCA) or
estimated operating costs of that product during a representative
average use cycle or period of use. Section 8(c) of appendix A of 10
CFR part 430 subpart C. In cases where the industry standard does not
meet EPCA statutory criteria for test procedures, DOE will make
modifications through the rulemaking process to these standards as the
DOE test procedure.
The test procedures for ceiling fans at Appendix U incorporates by
reference ANSI/AMCA 208-18, AMCA 230-15 and IEC 62301. ANSI/AMCA 208-18
provides the calculations to determine the CFEI for large-diameter
ceiling fans. AMCA 230-15 provides the test methods to determine
airflow (in CFM) and power consumption (in Watts), which are inputs to
the CFEI metric described in AMCA 208-18. IEC 62301 provides the test
method for measuring standby power for all ceiling fans. DOE is not
proposing incorporating by reference any additional industry standards
in this SNOPR. DOE requests comments on the benefits and burdens of the
proposed updates and additions to industry standards referenced in the
test procedure for ceiling fans.
DOE recognizes that adopting industry standards with modifications
imposes a burden on industry (i.e., manufacturers face increased costs
if the DOE modifications require different testing equipment or
facilities). DOE seeks comment on the degree to which the DOE test
procedure should consider and be harmonized further with the most
recent relevant industry standards for ceiling fans and whether there
are any changes to the Federal test method that would provide
additional benefits
[[Page 69560]]
to the public. DOE also requests comment on the benefits and burdens
of, or any other comments regarding adopting any industry/voluntary
consensus-based or other appropriate test procedure, without
modification.
L. Compliance Date and Waivers
EPCA prescribes that, if DOE amends a test procedure, all
representations of energy efficiency and energy use, including those
made on marketing materials and product labels, must be made in
accordance with that amended test procedure, beginning 180 days after
publication of such a test procedure final rule in the Federal
Register. (42 U.S.C. 6293(c)(2)) To the extent the modified test
procedure proposed in this document is required only for the evaluation
and issuance of updated efficiency standards, use of the modified test
procedure, if finalized, would not be required until the implementation
date of updated standards. Section 8(e) of appendix A 10 CFR part 430
subpart C.
If DOE were to publish an amended test procedure EPCA provides an
allowance for individual manufacturers to petition DOE for an extension
of the 180-day period if the manufacturer may experience undue hardship
in meeting the deadline. (42 U.S.C. 6293(c)(3)) To receive such an
extension, petitions must be filed with DOE no later than 60 days
before the end of the 180-day period and must detail how the
manufacturer will experience undue hardship. (Id.)
Upon the compliance date of test procedure provisions of an amended
test procedure, should DOE issue a such an amendment, any waivers that
had been previously issued and are in effect that pertain to issues
addressed by such provisions are terminated. 10 CFR 430.27(h)(3).
Recipients of any such waivers would be required to test the products
subject to the waiver according to the amended test procedure as of the
compliance date of the amended test procedure. The amendments proposed
in the September 2019 NOPR document pertain to issues addressed by a
waiver granted to BAS, Case No. 2017-011. See 84 FR 51440, 51446.
IV. Procedural Issues and Regulatory Review
A. Review Under Executive Order 12866
The Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') has determined that
this test procedure proposed rulemaking does not constitute
``significant regulatory actions'' under section 3(f) of Executive
Order (``E.O.'') 12866, Regulatory Planning and Review, 58 FR 51735
(Oct. 4, 1993). Accordingly, this action was not subject to review
under the Executive order by the Office of Information and Regulatory
Affairs (``OIRA'') in OMB.
B. Review Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act
The Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.) requires
preparation of an initial regulatory flexibility analysis (``IRFA'')
for any rule that by law must be proposed for public comment, unless
the agency certifies that the rule, if promulgated, will not have a
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.
As required by Executive Order 13272, ``Proper Consideration of Small
Entities in Agency Rulemaking,'' 67 FR 53461 (August 16, 2002), DOE
published procedures and policies on February 19, 2003, to ensure that
the potential impacts of its rules on small entities are properly
considered during the DOE rulemaking process. 68 FR 7990. DOE has made
its procedures and policies available on the Office of the General
Counsel's website: https://energy.gov/gc/office-general-counsel. DOE
reviewed this proposed rule under the provisions of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act and the policies and procedures published on February
19, 2003.
The following sections detail DOE's IRFA for this test procedure
SNOPR.
1. Description of Reasons Why Action Is Being Considered
DOE is proposing to amend the existing DOE test procedures for
ceiling fans. DOE shall amend test procedures with respect to any
covered product, if the Secretary determines that amended test
procedures would more accurately produce test results which measure
energy efficiency, energy use, or estimated annual operating cost of a
covered product during a representative average use cycle or period of
use. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(1)(A))
2. Objective of, and Legal Basis for, Rule
DOE is required to review existing DOE test procedures for all
covered products every 7 years. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(1)(A))
3. Description and Estimate of Small Entities Regulated
For manufacturers of ceiling fans, the Small Business
Administration (``SBA'') has set a size threshold, which defines those
entities classified as ``small businesses'' for the purposes of the
statute. DOE used the SBA's small business size standards to determine
whether any small entities would be subject to the requirements of the
rule. See 13 CFR part 121. The size standards are listed by North
American Industry Classification System (``NAICS'') code and industry
description available at: https://www.sba.gov/document/support--table-size-standards. Ceiling fan manufacturing is classified under NAICS
code 335210, ``Small Electrical Appliance Manufacturing.'' The SBA sets
a threshold of 1,500 employees or less for an entity to be considered
as a small business for this category.
To estimate the number of companies that manufacture ceiling fans
covered by this rulemaking, DOE used data from DOE's publicly available
Compliance Certification Database (``CCD''). DOE's small business
search focused on companies that sell at least one LSSD ceiling fan
model with more than three speed settings as well small businesses that
sell HSBD or LDBD ceiling fans, since those are the only manufacturers,
large or small, that are estimated to incur any costs due to the
proposed test procedure amendments.
DOE identified 10 potential domestic small businesses that
manufacture at least one LSSD ceiling fan with more than three speed
settings. These 10 potential domestic small businesses sell
approximately 325 unique LSSD ceiling fans with more than three speed
settings. Additionally, DOE identified four potential domestic small
businesses that manufacture HSBD or LDBD ceiling fans. These four
potential domestic small businesses sell 15 known HSBD ceiling fan
models and one known LDBD ceiling fan models.
4. Description and Estimate of Compliance Requirements
In this SNOPR, DOE proposes to amend the existing test procedure
for ceiling fans by (1) including a definition for ``circulating air''
for the purpose of the ceiling fan definition; (2) expanding test
procedure scope to include large-diameter ceiling fans with a diameter
greater than 24 feet; (3) expanding the test procedure to HSBD ceiling
fans and LDBD ceiling fans; (4) including a standby metric for large-
diameter ceiling fans; (5) amending the definition for low-speed; (6)
allowing two-arm sensor setup; (7) requiring sensor arm to stabilize
for 30 seconds prior to rotating sensor axes; (8) detailing air
velocity sensor mounting position; (9) providing instructions to
measure blade thickness; (10) clarifying test procedures for ceiling
fans with accessories; and (11) amending certain product-specific
rounding and enforcement provisions. Additionally, DOE continues to
propose the following proposals from the September 2019 NOPR: (1)
Specifying that VSD ceiling fans that do not also
[[Page 69561]]
meet the definition of LSSD fan are not required to be tested pursuant
to the DOE test method; (2) increasing the tolerance for the stability
criteria for the average air velocity measurements for LSSD ceiling
fans; (3) codifying guidance for calculating several values reported on
the FTC EnergyGuide label; and (4) amending other product-specific
represented value, rounding and enforcement provisions.
DOE estimates that some ceiling fan manufacturers would experience
a cost from the proposed test procedure amendment, if finalized, due to
retesting specific LSSD ceiling fans at low speed. Additionally, DOE
estimates that some ceiling fan manufacturers would experience a cost
savings from the proposed test procedure amendment, if finalized,
regarding the stability criteria for average air velocity measurements
by not having to purchase sensors.
As stated in the previous section, DOE identified 10 potential
domestic small businesses selling approximately 325 unique LSSD ceiling
fans with more than three speed settings. DOE previously estimated that
approximately 10 percent of LSSD ceiling fan models with more than
three speed settings would be required to re-test their models using
the proposed definition for low-speed. Therefore, DOE estimates that
approximately 33 ceiling fan models sold by domestic small businesses
would need to be re-tested due to this proposed test procedure
amendment. DOE previously estimated that it costs manufacturers
approximately $1,500 for a third-party lab to conduct this test.
Therefore, DOE estimates that all domestic small businesses would incur
approximately $49,500 to re-test certain LSSD ceiling fans to the
proposed low-speed definition. DOE estimates that the annual revenue of
these 10 potential domestic small businesses that sell at least one
LSSD ceiling fan with more than three speed settings range from
approximately $1.7 million to over $250 million, with a median value of
approximately $36 million.
Additionally, as stated in the previous section, DOE identified
four potential domestic small businesses selling 15 HSBD ceiling fan
models, four of which are capable of variable speed operation, and one
LDBD ceiling fan models. DOE estimates that the test procedure for
belt-driven ceiling fans would cost manufacturers approximately $5,340
per basic model capable of only single speed operation and $6,330 per
basic model for multi-speed units to test in accordance to this
proposed test procedure, if finalized. Therefore, DOE estimates that
domestic small businesses would incur a one-time cost of approximately
$89,400 to conduct testing for the proposed expanded scope of belt-
driven ceiling fan. DOE estimates that the annual revenue of these four
potential domestic small businesses that sell at least one HSBD or LDBD
ceiling fan range from approximately $79,000 to $16 million.
DOE presents the estimated testing costs and annual revenue for
each potential small business in Table IV.1.
Table IV.1--Estimated Testing Costs and Annual Revenue for Each Small Business
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Testing costs
Number of belt- Estimated Estimated as a percent
Company driven ceiling testing cost annual revenue of annual
fan models revenue
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Small Business 1................................ 9 $48,060 $16,000,000 0.3
Small Business 2................................ 5 28,680 79,000 36.3
Small Business 3................................ 1 6,330 1,500,000 0.4
Small Business 4................................ 1 6,330 97,000 6.5
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DOE requests comment on the number of potential small businesses
DOE identified; the number of ceiling fan models estimated to be
manufactured by these potential small businesses; and the per-model
testing costs DOE estimated small businesses may incur to test these
identified ceiling fans. Additionally, DOE also requests comment on any
other potential costs small businesses may incur due to the proposed
amended test procedures, if finalized.
5. Duplication, Overlap, and Conflict With Other Rules and Regulations
DOE is not aware of any rules or regulations that duplicate,
overlap, or conflict with the proposed rule being considered today.
6. Significant Alternatives to the Rule
As previously stated in this section, DOE is required to review
existing DOE test procedures for all covered products every 7 years.
Additionally, DOE shall amend test procedures with respect to any
covered product, if the Secretary determines that amended test
procedures would more accurately produce test results which measure
energy efficiency, energy use, or estimated annual operating cost of a
covered product during a representative average use cycle or period of
use. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(1)(A)) DOE has initially determined that the
proposed test procedure amendments for ceiling fans would more
accurately produce test results to measure the energy efficiency of
ceiling fans.
While DOE recognizes that requiring that ceiling fan manufacturers
to retest specific LSSD ceiling fans at low speed and expanding the
scope of ceiling fans would cause manufacturers to re-test or test some
ceiling fan models, the costs to re-test and test these models are
inexpensive for most ceiling fan manufacturers. DOE has tentatively
determined that there are no better alternatives than the proposed
amended test procedures, in terms of both meeting the agency's
objectives to accurately measure energy efficiency and reduce burden on
manufacturers. Therefore, DOE is proposing to amend the existing DOE
test procedure for ceiling fans, as proposed in this SNOPR.
Additional compliance flexibilities may be available through other
means. EPCA provides that a manufacturer whose annual gross revenue
from all of its operations does not exceed $8 million for the 12-month
period preceding the date of the application may apply for an exemption
from all or part of an energy conservation standard for a period not
longer than 24 months after the effective date of a final rule
establishing the standard. (42 U.S.C. 6295(t)) Additionally,
manufacturers subject to DOE's energy efficiency standards may apply to
DOE's Office of Hearings and Appeals for exception relief under certain
circumstances. Manufacturers should refer to 10 CFR part 430, subpart
E, and 10 CFR part 1003 for additional details on these additional
compliance flexibilities.
C. Review Under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995
Manufacturers of ceiling fans must certify to DOE that their
products
[[Page 69562]]
comply with any applicable energy conservation standards. To certify
compliance, manufacturers must first obtain test data for their
products according to the DOE test procedures, including any amendments
adopted for those test procedures. DOE has established regulations for
the certification and recordkeeping requirements for all covered
consumer products and commercial equipment, including ceiling fans.
(See generally 10 CFR part 429.) The collection-of-information
requirement for the certification and recordkeeping is subject to
review and approval by OMB under the Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA'').
DOE's current reporting requirements have been approved by OMB under
OMB control number 1910-1400. Public reporting burden for the
certification is estimated to average 35 hours per response, including
the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources,
gathering and maintaining the data needed, certifying compliance, and
completing and reviewing the collection of information.
Notwithstanding any other provision of the law, no person is
required to respond to, nor shall any person be subject to a penalty
for failure to comply with, a collection of information subject to the
requirements of the PRA, unless that collection of information displays
a currently valid OMB Control Number.
1. Description of the Requirements
In this SNOPR, DOE is proposing to expand the scope of the test
procedure to include LDCFs with a diameter greater than 24 feet. If DOE
amends the test procedures scope as proposed in this SNOPR,
manufacturers of ceilings fans with a diameter greater than 24 feet
will be required to certify compliance with energy conservation
standards (in 10 CFR 430.32(s)(2)(ii)) beginning 180 days after
publication of a test procedure final rule in the Federal Register. (42
U.S.C. 6293(c)(2)) DOE is proposing to revise the collection of
information approval under OMB Control Number 1910-1400 to account for
the paperwork burden associated with the expanded scope of LDCFs with a
diameter greater than 24 feet, including the time for reviewing
instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and
maintaining the data needed, certifying compliance, and completing and
reviewing the collection of information.
2. Method of Collection
DOE is proposing that respondents must submit electronic forms
using DOE's online Compliance Certification Management System
(``CCMS''). DOE's CCMS is publicly accessible at
www.regulations.doe.gov/ccms/, and includes instructions for users,
registration forms, and the product-specific reporting templates
required for use when submitting information to CCMS.
3. Data
The following are DOE estimates of the total annual reporting and
recordkeeping burden imposed on manufacturers of LDCFs with a diameter
greater than 24 feet subject to the amended certification reporting
requirements in this proposed rule. DOE has reviewed the market for
ceiling fans with a diameter greater than 24 feet and has identified 4
models currently being offered for sale by 2 manufacturers, both of
which already certify compliance with the current energy conservation
standards for ceiling fans. As a result of this market assessment, DOE
did not find any new or additional respondents that would be required
submit information as a result of the proposed expansion of scope for
LDCFs.
The addition of four basic models to certification reports will
simply expand their current CCMS excel templates by a row per basic
model, which is trivial compared to the total number of ceiling fans
they are already submitting.
OMB Control Number: 1910-1400.
Form Number: DOE F 220.7.
Type of Review: Regular submission.
Affected Public: Domestic manufacturers and importers of LDCFs with
a diameter greater than 24 feet.
Estimated Number of Respondents: 0 (already submitting under
current approval).
Estimated Time per Response: 0 (already submitting under current
approval).
Estimated Total Annual Burden Hours: 0.
Estimated Total Annual Cost to the Manufacturers: $0 in
recordkeeping/reporting costs.
4. Conclusion
DOE has tentatively determined that these proposed amendments would
not impose additional costs for manufacturers of ceiling fans because
manufacturers of these products or equipment are already submitting
certification reports to DOE and should have readily available the
information that DOE would collect if the proposed expansion of scope
is finalized as part of this rulemaking. Public comment is sought on
the number of respondents and burden requirements for collecting
information for LDCFs with a diameter greater than 24 feet. Send
comments on these or any other aspects of the collection of information
to the email address listed in the ADDRESSES section and to the OMB
Desk Officer by email to [email protected].
D. Review Under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
DOE is analyzing this proposed regulation in accordance with the
National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (``NEPA'') and DOE's NEPA
implementing regulations (10 CFR part 1021). DOE's regulations include
a categorical exclusion for rulemakings interpreting or amending an
existing rule or regulation that does not change the environmental
effect of the rule or regulation being amended. 10 CFR part 1021,
subpart D, appendix A5. DOE anticipates that this rulemaking qualifies
for categorical exclusion A5 because it is an interpretive rulemaking
that does not change the environmental effect of the rule and otherwise
meets the requirements for application of a categorical exclusion. See
10 CFR 1021.410. DOE will complete its NEPA review before issuing the
final rule.
E. Review Under Executive Order 13132
Executive Order 13132, ``Federalism,'' 64 FR 43255 (Aug. 4, 1999)
imposes certain requirements on agencies formulating and implementing
policies or regulations that preempt State law or that have federalism
implications. The Executive order requires agencies to examine the
constitutional and statutory authority supporting any action that would
limit the policymaking discretion of the States and to carefully assess
the necessity for such actions. The Executive order also requires
agencies to have an accountable process to ensure meaningful and timely
input by State and local officials in the development of regulatory
policies that have federalism implications. On March 14, 2000, DOE
published a statement of policy describing the intergovernmental
consultation process it will follow in the development of such
regulations. 65 FR 13735. DOE has examined this proposed rule and has
determined that it would not have a substantial direct effect on the
States, on the relationship between the national government and the
States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the
various levels of government. EPCA governs and prescribes Federal
preemption of State regulations as to energy conservation for the
products that are the subject of this proposed rule. States can
petition DOE for exemption from such preemption to the extent, and
based on criteria, set forth in EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6297(d)) No further
action is required by Executive Order 13132.
[[Page 69563]]
F. Review Under Executive Order 12988
Regarding the review of existing regulations and the promulgation
of new regulations, section 3(a) of Executive Order 12988, ``Civil
Justice Reform,'' 61 FR 4729 (Feb. 7, 1996), imposes on Federal
agencies the general duty to adhere to the following requirements: (1)
Eliminate drafting errors and ambiguity, (2) write regulations to
minimize litigation, (3) provide a clear legal standard for affected
conduct rather than a general standard, and (4) promote simplification
and burden reduction. Section 3(b) of Executive Order 12988
specifically requires that executive agencies make every reasonable
effort to ensure that the regulation (1) clearly specifies the
preemptive effect, if any, (2) clearly specifies any effect on existing
Federal law or regulation, (3) provides a clear legal standard for
affected conduct while promoting simplification and burden reduction,
(4) specifies the retroactive effect, if any, (5) adequately defines
key terms, and (6) addresses other important issues affecting clarity
and general draftsmanship under any guidelines issued by the Attorney
General. Section 3(c) of Executive Order 12988 requires executive
agencies to review regulations in light of applicable standards in
sections 3(a) and 3(b) to determine whether they are met or it is
unreasonable to meet one or more of them. DOE has completed the
required review and determined that, to the extent permitted by law,
the proposed rule meets the relevant standards of Executive Order
12988.
G. Review Under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
Title II of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (``UMRA'')
requires each Federal agency to assess the effects of Federal
regulatory actions on State, local, and Tribal governments and the
private sector. Public Law 104-4, sec. 201 (codified at 2 U.S.C. 1531).
For a proposed regulatory action likely to result in a rule that may
cause the expenditure by State, local, and Tribal governments, in the
aggregate, or by the private sector of $100 million or more in any one
year (adjusted annually for inflation), section 202 of UMRA requires a
Federal agency to publish a written statement that estimates the
resulting costs, benefits, and other effects on the national economy.
(2 U.S.C. 1532(a), (b)) The UMRA also requires a Federal agency to
develop an effective process to permit timely input by elected officers
of State, local, and Tribal governments on a proposed ``significant
intergovernmental mandate,'' and requires an agency plan for giving
notice and opportunity for timely input to potentially affected small
governments before establishing any requirements that might
significantly or uniquely affect small governments. On March 18, 1997,
DOE published a statement of policy on its process for
intergovernmental consultation under UMRA. 62 FR 12820; also available
at https://energy.gov/gc/office-general-counsel. DOE examined this
proposed rule according to UMRA and its statement of policy and
determined that the rule contains neither an intergovernmental mandate,
nor a mandate that may result in the expenditure of $100 million or
more in any year, so these requirements do not apply.
H. Review Under the Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act,
1999
Section 654 of the Treasury and General Government Appropriations
Act, 1999 (Pub. L. 105-277) requires Federal agencies to issue a Family
Policymaking Assessment for any rule that may affect family well-being.
This proposed rule would not have any impact on the autonomy or
integrity of the family as an institution. Accordingly, DOE has
concluded that it is not necessary to prepare a Family Policymaking
Assessment.
I. Review Under Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act,
2001
Section 515 of the Treasury and General Government Appropriations
Act, 2001 (44 U.S.C. 3516 note) provides for agencies to review most
disseminations of information to the public under guidelines
established by each agency pursuant to general guidelines issued by
OMB. OMB's guidelines were published at 67 FR 8452 (Feb. 22, 2002), and
DOE's guidelines were published at 67 FR 62446 (Oct. 7, 2002). DOE has
reviewed this proposed rule under the OMB and DOE guidelines and has
concluded that it is consistent with applicable policies in those
guidelines.
J. Review Under Executive Order 12630
DOE has determined, under Executive Order 12630, ``Governmental
Actions and Interference with Constitutionally Protected Property
Rights'' 53 FR 8859 (March 18, 1988), that this proposed regulation
would not result in any takings that might require compensation under
the Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
K. Review Under Executive Order 13211
Executive Order 13211, ``Actions Concerning Regulations That
Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use,'' 66 FR 28355
(May 22, 2001), requires Federal agencies to prepare and submit to OMB,
a Statement of Energy Effects for any proposed significant energy
action. A ``significant energy action'' is defined as any action by an
agency that promulgated or is expected to lead to promulgation of a
final rule, and that (1) is a significant regulatory action under
Executive Order 12866, or any successor order; and (2) is likely to
have a significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use
of energy; or (3) is designated by the Administrator of OIRA as a
significant energy action. For any proposed significant energy action,
the agency must give a detailed statement of any adverse effects on
energy supply, distribution, or use should the proposal be implemented,
and of reasonable alternatives to the action and their expected
benefits on energy supply, distribution, and use.
The proposed regulatory action to amend the test procedure for
measuring the energy efficiency of ceiling fans is not a significant
regulatory action under Executive Order 12866. Moreover, it would not
have a significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use
of energy, nor has it been designated as a significant energy action by
the Administrator of OIRA. Therefore, it is not a significant energy
action, and accordingly, DOE has not prepared a Statement of Energy
Effects.
L. Review Under Section 32 of the Federal Energy Administration Act of
1974
Under section 301 of the Department of Energy Organization Act
(Pub. L. 95-91; 42 U.S.C. 7101), DOE must comply with section 32 of the
Federal Energy Administration Act of 1974, as amended by the Federal
Energy Administration Authorization Act of 1977. (15 U.S.C. 788;
``FEAA'') Section 32 essentially provides in relevant part that, where
a proposed rule authorizes or requires use of commercial standards, the
notice of proposed rulemaking must inform the public of the use and
background of such standards. In addition, section 32(c) requires DOE
to consult with the Attorney General and the Chairman of the Federal
Trade Commission (``FTC'') concerning the impact of the commercial or
industry standards on competition.
DOE is not proposing any new incorporations by reference of
commercial standards in this SNOPR.
[[Page 69564]]
The proposed modifications to the test procedure for ceiling fans would
not incorporate any new testing methods.
M. Description of Materials Incorporated by Reference
The Director of the Federal Register previously approved the
following standards from the Air Movement and Control Association
International, Inc. (AMCA), for incorporation by reference into
appendix U to subpart B: ANSI/AMCA Standard 208-18, (``AMCA 208-18''),
Calculation of the Fan Energy Index, and ANSI/AMCA Standard 230-15
(``AMCA 230-15''), ``Laboratory Methods of Testing Air Circulating Fans
for Rating and Certification.''
V. Public Participation
A. Participation in the Webinar
The time and date of the webinar are listed in the DATES section at
the beginning of this document. If no participants register for the
webinar, it will be cancelled. Webinar registration information,
participant instructions, and information about the capabilities
available to webinar participants will be published on DOE's website:
www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/standards.aspx?productid=5. Participants are responsible for ensuring
their systems are compatible with the webinar software.
B. Submission of Comments
DOE will accept comments, data, and information regarding this
proposed rule no later than the date provided in the DATES section at
the beginning of this proposed rule. Interested parties may submit
comments using any of the methods described in the ADDRESSES section at
the beginning of this document.
Submitting comments via www.regulations.gov. The
www.regulations.gov web page will require you to provide your name and
contact information. Your contact information will be viewable to DOE
Building Technologies staff only. Your contact information will not be
publicly viewable except for your first and last names, organization
name (if any), and submitter representative name (if any). If your
comment is not processed properly because of technical difficulties,
DOE will use this information to contact you. If DOE cannot read your
comment due to technical difficulties and cannot contact you for
clarification, DOE may not be able to consider your comment.
However, your contact information will be publicly viewable if you
include it in the comment or in any documents attached to your comment.
Any information that you do not want to be publicly viewable should not
be included in your comment, nor in any document attached to your
comment. Persons viewing comments will see only first and last names,
organization names, correspondence containing comments, and any
documents submitted with the comments.
Do not submit to www.regulations.gov information for which
disclosure is restricted by statute, such as trade secrets and
commercial or financial information (hereinafter referred to as
Confidential Business Information (``CBI'')). Comments submitted
through www.regulations.gov cannot be claimed as CBI. Comments received
through the website will waive any CBI claims for the information
submitted. For information on submitting CBI, see the Confidential
Business Information section.
DOE processes submissions made through www.regulations.gov before
posting. Normally, comments will be posted within a few days of being
submitted. However, if large volumes of comments are being processed
simultaneously, your comment may not be viewable for up to several
weeks. Please keep the comment tracking number that www.regulations.gov
provides after you have successfully uploaded your comment.
Submitting comments via email. Comments and documents submitted via
email will be posted to www.regulations.gov. If you do not want your
personal contact information to be publicly viewable, do not include it
in your comment or any accompanying documents. Instead, provide your
contact information on a cover letter. Include your first and last
names, email address, telephone number, and optional mailing address.
The cover letter will not be publicly viewable as long as it does not
include any comments
Include contact information each time you submit comments, data,
documents, and other information to DOE. No telefacsimiles (faxes) will
be accepted.
Comments, data, and other information submitted to DOE
electronically should be provided in PDF (preferred), Microsoft Word or
Excel, WordPerfect, or text (ASCII) file format. Provide documents that
are not secured, written in English and free of any defects or viruses.
Documents should not contain special characters or any form of
encryption and, if possible, they should carry the electronic signature
of the author.
Campaign form letters. Please submit campaign form letters by the
originating organization in batches of between 50 to 500 form letters
per PDF or as one form letter with a list of supporters' names compiled
into one or more PDFs. This reduces comment processing and posting
time.
Confidential Business Information. Pursuant to 10 CFR 1004.11, any
person submitting information that he or she believes to be
confidential and exempt by law from public disclosure should submit via
email, postal mail, or hand delivery/courier two well-marked copies:
One copy of the document marked confidential including all the
information believed to be confidential, and one copy of the document
marked non-confidential with the information believed to be
confidential deleted. Submit these documents via email or on a CD, if
feasible. DOE will make its own determination about the confidential
status of the information and treat it according to its determination.
It is DOE's policy that all comments may be included in the public
docket, without change and as received, including any personal
information provided in the comments (except information deemed to be
exempt from public disclosure).
C. Issues on Which DOE Seeks Comment
Although DOE welcomes comments on any aspect of this proposal, DOE
is particularly interested in receiving comments and views of
interested parties concerning the following issues:
(1) DOE seeks comment on the proposed definition of
``circulating air'' for the purpose of the ceiling fan definition.
Specifically, DOE requests comment on the use of a ``diameter-to-
maximum operating speed'' ratio to distinguish fans with circulating
airflow from directional airflow, and the appropriateness of using
0.06 in/RPM as the threshold ratio. If another ratio should be
considered, DOE requests additional data to corroborate that ratio.
(2) DOE seeks comment on the characterization of fans that would
fall below the 0.06 in/RPM threshold ratio, such as certain high-
speed VSD ceiling fans that do not also meet the definition of an
LSSD fan. Specifically, DOE request comment on the appropriateness
of excluding high-speed VSD ceiling fans from scope of ``ceiling
fans.''
(3) DOE seeks comment regarding whether ``circulating air''
should be defined within the definition of ceiling fan at 10 CFR
430.2, as DOE has proposed, or if ``circulating air'' should be
defined separately within appendix U.
(4) DOE seeks comment on its proposal to remove the 24-foot
blade span limit in section 3.4.1 of appendix U, which would expand
the scope of the test procedure for LDCFs to ceiling fans with blade
span larger than 24 feet.
[[Page 69565]]
(5) DOE seeks comment on including within the test procedure
scope HSBD ceiling fans, the proposed term and definition, and the
appropriate tip speed threshold. Furthermore, DOE requests data on
blade thickness and tip speeds for these HSBD ceiling fans.
(6) DOE seeks comment on the alternate definition for HSBD
ceiling fans, and whether it would incorporate all the LDBD ceiling
fans from DOE's primary proposal. Further, DOE requests comment on
whether the HSBD and LDBD ceiling fan scope should be combined,
i.e., what is the utility and application of the two fan categories.
(7) DOE requests comment on requiring AMCA 230-15 as the test
procedure for HSBD and LDBD ceiling fans, or whether DOE should
consider any other test procedure.
(8) DOE requests comment on its proposal to test single speed
HSBD and LDBD only at high speed and variable speed HSBD and LDBD at
high speed and 40 percent speed. Alternatively, DOE requests comment
the typical number of operating speeds and hours for HSBD ceiling
fans and LDBD ceiling fans.
(9) DOE requests comment on whether the efficiency of HDBD fans
and LDBD ceiling fans is more appropriately evaluated using the CFEI
or CFM/W metric.
(10) DOE seeks comment on its preliminary determination that
establishing an integrated metric that incorporates the energy
efficiency measured as required under each LCDF standard and the
energy use measured during standby mode would be technically
infeasible.
(11) DOE seeks comment on its proposal to specify for LDCFs a
separate standby mode energy use metric, which would be based on the
standby power procedure defined in section 3.6 of appendix U.
(12) DOE seeks comment on its proposal to specify for HSBD
ceiling fans and LDBD ceiling fans a separate standby mode energy
use metric, which would be based on the standby power procedure
defined in section 3.6 of appendix U.
(13) DOE seeks comment on the proposal to update the low speed
definition as follows: Low speed means the lowest available ceiling
fan speed for which fewer than half or three, whichever is fewer,
sensors per individual axis are measuring less than 40 feet per
minute.
(14) DOE also seeks comment on the alternate proposal to
represent low speed as a table specifying the number of sensors per
individual axis required to measure greater than 40 feet per minute.
(15) DOE seeks comment on the proposal to require testing to
start at the lowest speed and move to the next highest speed until
the modified low speed criteria are met. Specifically, DOE seeks
comment on whether any applicable variable speed LSSD ceiling fans
(without distinct speed settings) would require further specificity
on this proposal and if so, how it should be specified.
(16) DOE requests comment on the extent to which, for DOE
certification purposes, an individual unit within a sample of fans
(per basic model) could have a different setting that meets the
proposed definition of low speed than other units within the same
sample. If so, DOE requests data on how the issue could affect
representativeness (in terms of ceiling fan efficiency) of the basic
model.
(17) DOE seeks comment on the proposed requirement to add 30
seconds between test runs for a rotating arm setup (either single-
arm or two-arm).
(18) DOE seeks comment on its proposal to permit the use of a
two-arm setup, as well as any data to confirm that a 2-arm option
produces comparable results to the existing 1-arm and 4-arm options.
(19) DOE requests comment on its proposal to specify aligning
the air velocity sensors perpendicular to the airflow. DOE also
requests comment on whether it should revise Figure 2 of appendix U,
and/or provide an additional figure, to depict more clearly the
alignment of the velocity sensors perpendicular to the direction of
airflow.
(20) DOE seeks comment on its proposal to measure ceiling fan
blade thickness at the thickest point within 1'' of the blade's
leading edge, along the plane perpendicular to the blade's radial
length at which the blade is thinnest. Specifically, DOE seeks
feedback on if this update will prevent ceiling fans from being
incorrectly classified into the wrong product class. DOE also
welcomes feedback on if the blade thickness should be measured
within 1'' of the leading edge, or if the allowable thickness
measurement zone should be restricted to closer to the leading edge
(e.g., within \1/2\'' or \1/4\'' of the leading edge).
(21) DOE seeks comment on its proposal to require that testing
be performed without any additional accessories or features
energized, if possible; and if not, with the additional accessories
or features set at the lowest energy-consuming mode for testing.
(22) DOE seeks comment on its proposal to specify that any
represented value of airflow (CFM) at high speed, including the
value used to determine whether a ceiling fan is a highly-decorative
ceiling fan, is determined pursuant to 10 CFR 429.32(a)(2)(i) and
rounded to the nearest CFM.
(23) DOE requests comment on the proposed instrument measurement
resolution, rounding and tolerance requirements for blade edge
thickness measurements.
(24) DOE seeks comment on its proposal to define a tolerance of
2% for blade RPM measurements at high speed. If other tolerances are
recommended, DOE seeks specific equipment and/or voltage variation
data to justify the recommended tolerance.
(25) DOE requests comment on the number of ceiling fan models on
the market that are larger than 24 feet, and the associated burden
of testing any ceiling fans larger than 24 feet to the proposed DOE
test procedure in this SNOPR.
(26) DOE requests comment on the per model test cost estimate to
test these expanded scope belt-driven ceiling fans, and the current
estimate of the number of manufacturers and number of models of
expanded scope belt-driven ceiling fans currently made by ceiling
fan manufacturers.
(27) DOE requests comment on the specific costs and cost savings
identified regarding the proposed amendments to the scope, stability
criteria, and low speed definition. Additionally, DOE requests
comment on any other potential costs or costs savings not identified
that ceiling fan manufacturers may incur as a result of the proposed
test procedure amendments.
(28) DOE requests comment on the number of potential small
businesses DOE identified; the number of ceiling fan models
estimated to be manufactured by these potential small businesses;
and the per-model testing costs DOE estimated small businesses may
incur to test these identified ceiling fans. Additionally, DOE also
requests comment on any other potential costs small businesses may
incur due to the proposed amended test procedures, if finalized.
(29) DOE requests comment on the number of respondents and
burden requirements for collecting information for LDCFs with a
diameter greater than 24 feet.
VI. Approval of the Office of the Secretary
The Secretary of Energy has approved publication of this
supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking.
List of Subjects
10 CFR Part 429
Administrative practice and procedure, Confidential business
information, Energy conservation, Household appliances, Reporting and
recordkeeping requirements.
10 CFR Part 430
Administrative practice and procedure, Confidential business
information, Energy conservation, Household appliances, Imports,
Incorporation by reference, Intergovernmental relations, Small
businesses.
Signing Authority
This document of the Department of Energy was signed on November
16, 2021, by Kelly Speakes-Backman, Principal Deputy Assistant
Secretary and Acting Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and
Renewable Energy, pursuant to delegated authority from the Secretary of
Energy. That document with the original signature and date is
maintained by DOE. For administrative purposes only, and in compliance
with requirements of the Office of the Federal Register, the
undersigned DOE Federal Register Liaison Officer has been authorized to
sign and submit the document in electronic format for publication, as
an official document of the Department of Energy. This administrative
process in no way alters the legal effect of this document upon
publication in the Federal Register.
[[Page 69566]]
Signed in Washington, DC, on November 17, 2021.
Treena V. Garrett,
Federal Register Liaison Officer, U.S. Department of Energy.
For the reasons stated in the preamble, DOE proposes to amend parts
429 and 430 of chapter II of title 10, Code of Federal Regulations as
set forth below:
PART 429--CERTIFICATION, COMPLIANCE, AND ENFORCEMENT FOR CONSUMER
PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT
0
1. The authority citation for part 429 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 42 U.S.C. 6291-6317; 28 U.S.C. 2461 note.
0
2. Section 429.32 is amended by:
0
a. Revising the introductory text in paragraph (a)(2);
0
b. Revising paragraph (a)(2)(ii)(B); and
0
c. Adding paragraphs (a)(3) and (4);
The revisions and additions read as follows:
Sec. 429.32 Ceiling fans.
(a) * * *
(2) For each basic model of ceiling fan, a sample of sufficient
size must be randomly selected and tested to ensure that--
* * * * *
(ii) * * *
(B) The upper 95 percent confidence limit (UCL) of the true mean
divided by 1.1, where:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP07DE21.003
And x is the sample mean; s is the sample standard deviation; n is
the number of samples; and t0.95 is the t statistic for a
95% one-tailed confidence interval with n-1 degrees of freedom (from
appendix A to this subpart); and
(3) For each basic model of ceiling fan,
(i) Any represented value of blade span, as defined in section
1.4 of appendix U to subpart B of part 430, is the mean of the blade
spans measured for the sample selected as described in paragraph
(a)(1) of this section, rounded to the nearest inch; and
(ii) Any represented value of blade revolutions per minute (RPM)
is the mean of the blade RPM measurements measured for the sample
selected as described in paragraph (a)(1) of this section, rounded
to the nearest RPM; and
(iii) Any represented value of blade edge thickness is the mean
of the blade edge thicknesses measured for the sample selected as
described in paragraph (a)(1) of this section, rounded to the
nearest 0.01 inch; and
(iv) Any represented value of the distance between the ceiling
and the lowest point on the fan blades is the mean of the distances
measured for the sample selected as described in paragraph (a)(1) of
this section, rounded to the nearest quarter of an inch; and
(v) Any represented value of tip speed is pi multiplied by
represented value of blade span divided by twelve multiplied by the
represented value of RPM, rounded to the nearest foot per minute;
(vi) Any represented value of airflow (CFM) at high speed,
including the value used to determine whether a ceiling fan is a
highly-decorative ceiling fan as defined in section 1.9 of appendix
U to subpart B of part 430, is determined pursuant to paragraph
(a)(2)(i) and rounded to the nearest CFM; and
(4) To determine values required by the Federal Trade Commission
(FTC), use the following provisions. Note that, for multi-mount
ceiling fans these values must be reported on the EnergyGuide label
for the ceiling fan configuration with the lowest efficiency.
(i) FTC Airflow. Determine the represented value for FTC airflow by
calculating the weighted-average airflow of an LSSD or VSD ceiling fan
basic model at low and high fan speed as follows:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP07DE21.004
Where:
AirflowFTC = represented value for FTC airflow, rounded
to the nearest CFM,
CFMLow = represented value of measured airflow, in cubic
feet per minute, at low fan speed, pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)(i)
of this section, and
CFMHigh = represented value of measured airflow, in cubic
feet per minute, at high fan speed, pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)(i)
of this section.
(ii) FTC Energy Use. Determine represented value for FTC energy use
by calculating the weighted-average power consumption of an LSSD or VSD
ceiling fan basic model at low and high fan speed as follows:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP07DE21.005
Where:
Energy UseFTC= represented value for FTC Energy Use,
rounded to the nearest watt,
WLow = represented value of measured power consumption,
in watts, at low fan speed, pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)(ii) of this
section,
WHigh = represented value of measured power consumption,
in watts, at high fan speed, pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)(ii) of
this section, and
Wsb = represented value of measured power consumption, in
watts, in standby mode, pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)(ii) of this
section.
(iii) FTC Estimated Yearly Energy Cost. Determine the represented
value for FTC estimated yearly energy cost of an LSSD or VSD ceiling
fan basic model at low and high fan speed as follows:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP07DE21.006
[[Page 69567]]
Where:
EYECFTC = represented value for FTC estimated yearly
energy cost, rounded to the nearest dollar, and
WLow = represented value of measured power consumption,
in watts, at low fan speed, pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)(ii) of this
section,
WHigh = represented value of measured power consumption,
in watts, at high fan speed, pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)(ii) of
this section, and
Wsb = represented value of measured power consumption, in
watts, in standby mode, pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)(ii) of this
section.
* * * * *
0
3. Section 429.134 is amended by adding paragraph (s) to read as
follows:
Sec. 429.134 Product-specific enforcement provisions.
* * * * *
(s) Ceiling Fans--(1) Verification of blade span. DOE will measure
the blade span and round the measurement pursuant to the test
requirements of 10 CFR part 430 of this chapter for each unit tested.
DOE will consider the represented blade span valid only if the rounded
measurement(s) (either the rounded measured value for a single unit, or
the mean of the rounded measured values for a multiple unit sample,
rounded to the nearest inch) is the same as the represented blade span.
(i) If DOE determines that the represented blade span is valid,
that blade span will be used as the basis for determining the product
class and calculating the minimum allowable ceiling fan efficiency.
(ii) If DOE determines that the represented blade span is invalid,
DOE will use the rounded measured blade span(s) as the basis for
determining the product class, and calculating the minimum allowable
ceiling fan efficiency.
(2) Verification of the distance between the ceiling and lowest
point of fan blades. DOE will measure the distance between the ceiling
and lowest point of the fan blades and round the measurement pursuant
to the test requirements of 10 CFR part 430 of this chapter for each
unit tested. DOE will consider the represented distance valid only if
the rounded measurement(s) (either the measured value for a single
unit, or the mean of the measured values for a multiple unit sample,
rounded to the nearest quarter inch) are the same as the represented
distance.
(i) If DOE determines that the represented distance is valid, that
distance will be used as the basis for determining the product class.
(ii) If DOE determines that the represented distance is invalid,
DOE will use the rounded measured distance(s) as the basis for
determining the product class.
(3) Verification of blade revolutions per minute (RPM) measured at
high speed. DOE will measure the blade RPM at high speed pursuant to
the test requirements of 10 CFR part 430 of this chapter for each unit
tested. DOE will consider the represented blade RPM measured at high
speed valid only if the measurement(s) (either the measured value for a
single unit, or the mean of the measured values for a multiple unit
sample, rounded to the nearest RPM) are within the greater of 2% of the
represented blade RPM at high speed.
(i) If DOE determines that the represented RPM is valid, that RPM
will be used as the basis for determining the product class.
(ii) If DOE determines that the represented RPM is invalid, DOE
will use the rounded measured RPM(s) as the basis for determining the
product class.
(4) Verification of blade edge thickness. DOE will measure the
blade edge thickness and round the measurement pursuant to the test
requirements of 10 CFR part 430 for each unit tested. DOE will consider
the represented blade edge thickness valid only if the measurement(s)
(either the measured value for a single unit, or the mean of the
measured values for a multiple unit sample, rounded to the nearest 0.01
inch) are the same as the represented blade edge thickness.
(i) If DOE determines that the represented blade edge thickness is
valid, that blade edge thickness will be used for determining product
class.
(ii) If DOE determines that the represented blade edge thickness is
invalid, DOE will use the rounded measured blade edge thickness(es) as
the basis for determining the product class.
PART 430--ENERGY CONSERVATION PROGRAM FOR CONSUMER PRODUCTS
0
4. The authority citation for part 430 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 42 U.S.C. 6291-6309; 28 U.S.C. 2461 note.
0
5. Section 430.2 is amended by revising the definition of ``Ceiling
fan'' to read as follows:
Sec. 430.2 Definitions.
* * * * *
Ceiling fan means a nonportable device that is suspended from a
ceiling for circulating air via the rotation of fan blades. For the
purpose of this definition:
(1) Circulating Air means the discharge of air in an upward or
downward direction with the air returning to the intake side of the
fan. A ceiling fan that has a ratio of fan blade span (in inches) to
maximum rotation rate (in revolutions per minute) greater than 0.06
provides circulating air.
(2) For all other ceiling fan related definitions, see appendix U
to this subpart.
* * * * *
0
6. Section 430.23 is amended by revising paragraph (w) to read as
follows:
Sec. 430.23 Test procedures for the measurement of energy and water
consumption.
* * * * *
(w) Ceiling fans. Measure the following attributes of a single
ceiling fan in accordance with appendix U to this subpart: Airflow;
power consumption; ceiling fan efficiency; ceiling fan energy index
(CFEI); standby power; distance between the ceiling and lowest point of
fan blades; blade span; blade edge thickness; and blade revolutions per
minute (RPM).
* * * * *
0
7. Appendix U to subpart B of part 430 is amended by:
0
a. Revising the introductory text;
0
b. Revising sections 1.4, and 1.8 through 1.20;
0
c. Adding sections 1.21 and 1.22;
0
d. Revising sections 2, 3, 3.2.2(1), 3.2.2(4), 3.2.2(6), 3.2.3,
3.3.1(3), 3.3.1(4), 3.3.1(8), and 3.3.2;
0
e. Adding section 3.3.3;
0
f. Revising section 3.4;
0
g. Removing section 3.4.1, and redesignating sections 3.4.2 through
3.4.4, as sections 3.4.1 through 3.4.3;
0
h. Revising sections 3.5, 3.5.1, 3.6.(1), 4, and 5;
The revisions and additions read as follows:
Appendix U to Subpart B of Part 430--Uniform Test Method for Measuring
the Energy Consumption of Ceiling Fans
Prior to [effective date of test procedure final rule],
manufacturers must make any representations with respect to the
energy use or efficiency of ceiling fans as specified in Section 2
of this appendix as it appeared on January 23, 2017. On or after
[effective date of test procedure final rule], manufacturers of
ceiling fans, as specified in section 2 of this appendix, must make
any representations with respect to energy use or efficiency in
accordance with the results of testing pursuant to this appendix.
Certification of standby power consumption for large-diameter
ceiling fans is required from the time that an energy conservation
standard on standby power consumption requires compliance.
[[Page 69568]]
1. * * *
1.4. Blade span means the diameter of the largest circle swept
by any part of the fan blade assembly, including attachments. The
represented value of blade span (D) is as determined in 10 CFR
429.32.
* * * * *
1.8. High-speed small-diameter (HSSD) ceiling fan means a small-
diameter ceiling fan that is not a very-small-diameter ceiling fan,
highly-decorative ceiling fan or belt-driven ceiling fan and that
has a represented value of blade edge thickness, as determined in 10
CFR 429.32(a)(3)(iii), of less than 3.2 mm or a maximum represented
value of tip speed, as determined in 10 CFR 429.32(a)(3)(v), greater
than the applicable limit specified in the table in this definition.
High-Speed Small-Diameter Ceiling Fan Blade and Tip Speed Criteria
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thickness (t) of edges of blades Tip speed threshold
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Airflow direction feet per
Mm Inch m/s minute
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Downward-only............................. 4.8 > t >= 3.2 \3/16\ > t >= \1/ 16.3 3,200
8\
Downward-only............................. t >= 4.8 t >= \3/16\ 20.3 4,000
Reversible................................ 4.8 > t >= 3.2 \3/16\ > t >= \1/ 12.2 2,400
8\
Reversible................................ t >= 4.8 t >= \3/16\ 16.3 3,200
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.9. High-speed belt-driven (HSBD) ceiling fan means a small-
diameter ceiling fan that is a belt-driven ceiling fan with one fan
head, and has tip speeds greater than or equal to 5000 feet per
minute.
1.10. Highly-decorative ceiling fan means a ceiling fan with a
maximum represented value of blade revolutions per minute (RPM), as
determined in 10 CFR 429.32(a)(3)(ii), of 90 RPM, and a represented
value of airflow at high speed, as determined in 10 CFR
429.32(a)(3)(vi), of less than 1,840 CFM.
1.11. Hugger ceiling fan means a low-speed small-diameter
ceiling fan that is not a very-small-diameter ceiling fan, highly-
decorative ceiling fan, or belt-driven ceiling fan, and for which
the represented value of the distance between the ceiling and the
lowest point on the fan blades, as determined in 10 CFR
429.32(a)(3)(iv), is less than or equal to 10 inches.
1.12. Large-diameter ceiling fan means a ceiling fan that is not
a highly-decorative ceiling fan or belt-driven ceiling fan and has a
represented value of blade span, as determined in 10 CFR
429.32(a)(3)(i), greater than seven feet.
1.13. Large-diameter belt-driven (LDBD) ceiling fan means a
belt-driven ceiling fan with one fan head that has a represented
value of blade span, as determined in 10 CFR 429.32(a)(3)(i),
greater than seven feet.
1.14. Low speed means the lowest available ceiling fan speed for
which fewer than half or three, whichever is fewer, sensors per
individual axis are measuring less than 40 feet per minute.
1.15. Low-speed small-diameter (LSSD) ceiling fan means a small-
diameter ceiling fan that has a represented value of blade edge
thickness, as determined in 10 CFR 429.32(a)(3)(iii), greater than
or equal to 3.2 mm and a maximum represented value of tip speed, as
determined in 10 CFR 429.32(a)(3)(v), less than or equal to the
applicable limit specified in the table in this definition.
Low-Speed Small-Diameter Ceiling Fan Blade and Tip Speed Criteria
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thickness (t) of edges of blades Tip speed threshold
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Airflow direction feet per
Mm Inch m/s minute
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reversible................................ 4.8 > t >= 3.2 \3/16\ > t >= \1/ 12.2 2,400
8\
Reversible................................ t >= 4.8 t >= \3/16\ 16.3 3,200
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.16. Multi-head ceiling fan means a ceiling fan with more than
one fan head, i.e., more than one set of rotating fan blades.
1.17. Multi-mount ceiling fan means a low-speed small-diameter
ceiling fan that can be mounted in the configurations associated
with both the standard and hugger ceiling fans.
1.18. Oscillating ceiling fan means a ceiling fan containing one
or more fan heads for which the axis of rotation of the fan blades
cannot remain in a fixed position relative to the ceiling. Such fans
have no inherent means by which to disable the oscillating function
separate from the fan blade rotation.
1.19. Small-diameter ceiling fan means a ceiling fan that has a
represented value of blade span, as determined in 10 CFR
429.32(a)(3)(i), less than or equal to seven feet.
1.20. Standard ceiling fan means a low-speed small-diameter
ceiling fan that is not a very-small-diameter ceiling fan, highly-
decorative ceiling fan or belt-driven ceiling fan, and for which the
represented value of the distance between the ceiling and the lowest
point on the fan blades, as determined in 10 CFR 429.32(a)(3)(iv),
is greater than 10 inches.
1.21. Total airflow means the sum of the product of airflow and
hours of operation at all tested speeds. For multi-head fans, this
includes the airflow from all fan heads.
1.22. Very-small-diameter (VSD) ceiling fan means a small-
diameter ceiling fan that is not a highly-decorative ceiling fan or
belt-driven ceiling fan; and has one or more fan heads, each of
which has a represented value of blade span, as determined in 10 CFR
429.32(a)(3)(i), of 18 inches or less. Only VSD fans that also meet
the definition of an LSSD fan are required to be tested for purposes
of determining compliance with energy efficiency standards
established by DOE and for other representations of energy
efficiency.
2. Scope:
The provisions in this appendix apply to ceiling fans except:
(1) Ceiling fans where the plane of rotation of a ceiling fan's
blades is not less than or equal to 45 degrees from horizontal, or
cannot be adjusted based on the manufacturer's specifications to be
less than or equal to 45 degrees from horizontal;
(2) Centrifugal ceiling fans;
(3) Belt-driven ceiling fans that are not either a high-speed
belt-driven ceiling fan or a large-diameter belt-driven ceiling fan;
and
(4) Oscillating ceiling fans.
3. General Instructions, Test Apparatus, and Test Measurement:
The test apparatus and test measurement used to determine energy
performance depend on the ceiling fan's blade span, and in some
cases the ceiling fan's blade edge thickness. For each tested
ceiling fan, measure the lateral distance from the center of the
axis of rotation of the fan blades to the furthest fan blade edge
from the center of the axis of rotation. Measure this lateral
distance at the resolution of the measurement instrument, using an
instrument with a measurement resolution of least 0.25 inches.
Multiply the lateral distance by two and then round to the nearest
whole inch to determine the blade span. For ceiling fans having a
blade span greater than 18 inches and less than or equal to 84
inches, measure the
[[Page 69569]]
ceiling fan's blade edge thickness. To measure the fan blade edge
thickness, use an instrument with a measurement resolution of at
least 0.001 inch and measure the thickness of one fan blade's
leading edge (in the forward direction) according to the following:
(1) Locate the cross section perpendicular to the fan blade's
radial length that is at least one inch from the tip of the fan
blade and for which the blade is thinnest, and
(2) Measure at the thickest point of that cross section within
one inch from the leading edge of the fan blade.
See Figure 1 of this appendix for an instructional schematic on
the fan blade edge thickness measurement. Figure 1 depicts a ceiling
fan from above. Round the measured blade edge thickness to the
nearest 0.01 inch.
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP07DE21.007
* * * * *
3.2.2. Equipment Set-up.
(1) Make sure the transformer power is off. Hang the ceiling fan
to be tested directly from the ceiling, according to the
manufacturer's installation instructions. Hang all non-multi-mount
ceiling fans in the fan configuration that minimizes the distance
between the ceiling and the lowest point of the fan blades. Hang and
test multi-mount fans in two configurations: The configuration
associated the definition of a standard fan that minimizes the
distance between the ceiling and the lowest point of the fan blades
and the configuration associated with the definition of a hugger fan
that minimizes the distance between the ceiling and the lowest point
of the fan blades. For all tested configurations, measure the
distance between the ceiling and the lowest point of the fan blade
using an instrument with a measurement resolution of at least 0.25
inches. Round the measured distance from the ceiling to the lowest
point of the fan blade to the nearest quarter inch.
* * * * *
(4) A single rotating sensor arm, two rotating sensor arms, or
four fixed sensor arms can be used to take air velocity measurements
along four axes, labeled A-D. Axes A, B, C, and D are at 0, 90, 180,
and 270 degree positions. Axes A-D must be perpendicular to the four
walls of the room. See Figure 2 of this appendix.
[[Page 69570]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP07DE21.008
* * * * *
(6) Place the sensors at intervals of 4 0.0625
inches along a sensor arm, starting with the first sensor at the
point where the four axes intersect, aligning the sensors
perpendicular to the direction of airflow. Do not touch the actual
sensor prior to testing. Use enough sensors to record air delivery
within a circle 8 inches larger in diameter than the blade span of
the ceiling fan being tested. The experimental set-up is shown in
Figure 3 of this appendix.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP07DE21.009
BILLING CODE 6450-01-C
* * * * *
3.2.3. Multi-Head Ceiling Fan Test Set-Up.
Hang a multi-headed ceiling fan from the ceiling such that one
of the ceiling fan heads is centered directly over sensor 1 (i.e.,
at the intersection of axes A, B, C, and D). The distance between
the lowest point any of the fan blades of the centered fan head can
reach and the air velocity sensors is to be such that it is the same
as for all other small-diameter ceiling fans (see Figure 3 of this
appendix). If the multi-head ceiling fan has an oscillating function
(i.e., the fan heads change their axis of rotation relative to the
ceiling) that can be switched off, switch it off prior to taking air
velocity measurements. If any multi-head fan does not come with the
[[Page 69571]]
blades preinstalled, install fan blades only on the fan head that
will be directly centered over the intersection of the sensor axes.
(Even if the fan heads in a multi-head ceiling fan would typically
oscillate when the blades are installed on all fan heads, the
ceiling fan is subject to this test procedure if the centered fan
head does not oscillate when it is the only fan head with the blades
installed.) If the fan blades are preinstalled on all fan heads,
measure air velocity in accordance with section 3.3 of this appendix
except turn on only the centered fan head. Take the power
consumption measurements separately, with the fan blades installed
on all fan heads and with any oscillating function, if present,
switched on.
* * * * *
3.3.1 Test conditions to be followed when testing:
* * * * *
(3) If present, any additional accessories or features sold with
the ceiling fan that do not relate to the ceiling fan's ability to
create airflow by rotation of the fan blades (for example light kit,
heater, air ionization, ultraviolet technology) is to be installed
but turned off during testing. If the accessory/feature cannot be
turned off, it shall be set to the lowest energy-consuming mode
during testing.
(4) If present, turn off any oscillating function causing the
axis of rotation of the fan head(s) to change relative to the
ceiling during operation prior to taking air velocity measurements.
Turn on any oscillating function prior to taking power measurements.
* * * * *
(8) Measure power input at a point that includes all power-
consuming components of the ceiling fan (but without any attached
light kit energized; or without any additional accessory or feature
energized, if possible; and if not, with the additional accessory or
feature set at the lowest energy-consuming mode).
* * * * *
3.3.2 Air Velocity and Power Consumption Testing Procedure:
Measure the air velocity (FPM) and power consumption (W) for
HSSD ceiling fans until stable measurements are achieved, measuring
at high speed only. Measure the air velocity and power consumption
for LSSD and VSD ceiling fans that also meet the definition of an
LSSD fan until stable measurements are achieved, measuring first at
low speed and then at high speed. To determine low speed, start
measurements at the lowest available speed and move to the next
highest speed until the low speed definition in section 1.12 of this
appendix is met. Air velocity and power consumption measurements are
considered stable for high speed if:
(1) The average air velocity for each sensor varies by less than
5% or 2 FPM, whichever is greater, compared to the average air
velocity measured for that same sensor in a successive set of air
velocity measurements, and
(2) Average power consumption varies by less than 1% in a
successive set of power consumption measurements.
(a) Air velocity and power consumption measurements are
considered stable for low speed if:
(1) The average air velocity for each sensor varies by less than
10% or 2 FPM, whichever is greater, compared to the average air
velocity measured for that same sensor in a successive set of air
velocity measurements, and
(2) Average power consumption varies by less than 1% in a
successive set of power consumption measurements.
(b) These stability criteria are applied differently to ceiling
fans with airflow not directly downward. See section 3.3.3 of this
appendix.
Step 1: Set the first sensor arm (if using four fixed arms), two
sensor arm (if using a two-arm rotating setup), or single sensor arm
(if using a single-arm rotating setup) to the 0 degree Position
(Axis A). If necessary, use a marking as reference. If using a
single-arm rotating setup or two-arm rotating setup, adjust the
sensor arm alignment until it is at the 0 degree position by
remotely controlling the antenna rotator.
Step 2: Set software up to read and record air velocity,
expressed in feet per minute (FPM) in 1 second intervals.
(Temperature does not need to be recorded in 1 second intervals.)
Record current barometric pressure.
Step 3: Allow test fan to run 15 minutes at rated voltage and at
high speed if the ceiling fan is an HSSD ceiling fan. If the ceiling
fan is an LSSD or VSD ceiling fan that also meets the definition of
an LSSD fan, allow the test fan to run 15 minutes at the rated
voltage and at the lowest available ceiling fan speed. Turn off all
forced-air environmental conditioning equipment entering the chamber
(e.g., air conditioning), close all doors and vents, and wait an
additional 3 minutes prior to starting test session.
Step 4a: For a rotating sensor arm: Begin recording readings.
Starting with Axis A, take 100 air velocity readings (100 seconds
run-time) and record these data. For all fans except multi-head fans
and fans capable of oscillating, also measure power during the
interval that air velocity measurements are taken. Record the
average value of the air velocity readings for each sensor in feet
per minute (FPM). Determine if the readings meet the low speed
definition as defined in section 1.12 of this appendix. If not,
restart Step 4a at the next highest speed until the low-speed
definition is met. Once the low speed definition is met, rotate the
arm, stabilize the arm, and allow 30 seconds to allow the arm to
stop oscillating. Repeat data recording and rotation process for
Axes B, C, and D. Step 4a is complete when the readings for all axes
meet the low speed definition at the same speed. Save the data for
all axes only for those measurements that meet the low speed
definition. Using the measurements applicable to low speed, record
the average value of the power measurement in watts (W) (400
readings). Record the average value of the air velocity readings for
each sensor in feet per minute (FPM) (400 readings).
Step 4b: For a two-arm rotating setup: Begin recording readings.
Starting with Axes A and C, take 100 air velocity readings (100
seconds run-time) for both axes and record these data. For all fans
except multi-head fans and fans capable of oscillating, also measure
power during the interval that air velocity measurements are taken.
Record the average value of the air velocity readings for each
sensor in feet per minute (FPM). Determine if the readings meet the
low speed definition as defined in section 1.12 of this appendix. If
not, restart Step 4b at the next highest speed until the low speed
definition is met. Once the low speed definition is met, rotate the
two-arm, stabilize the arm, and allow 30 seconds to allow the arm to
stop oscillating. Repeat data recording for Axes B and D. Step 4b is
complete when the readings for all axes meet the low speed
definition at the same speed. Save the data for all axes only for
those measurements that meet the low speed definition. Using the
measurements applicable to low speed, record the average value of
the power measurement in watts (W) (200 readings). Record the
average value of the air velocity readings for each sensor in feet
per minute (FPM) (200 readings).
Step 4c: For four fixed sensor arms: Begin recording readings.
Take 100 air velocity readings (100 seconds run-time) and record
this data. Take the readings for all sensor arms (Axes A, B, C, and
D) simultaneously. For all fans except multi-head fans and fans
capable of oscillating, also measure power during the interval that
air velocity measurements are taken. Record the average value of the
air velocity readings for each sensor in feet per minute (FPM).
Determine if the readings meet the low speed definition as defined
in section 1.12 of this appendix. If not, restart Step 4c at the
next highest speed until the low speed definition is met. Step 4c is
complete when the readings for all axes meet the low speed
definition at the same speed. Save the data for all axes only for
those measurements that meet the low speed definition. Using the
measurements applicable to low speed, record the average value of
the power measurement in watts (W) (100 readings). Record the
average value of the air velocity readings for each sensor in feet
per minute (FPM) (100 readings).
Step 5: Repeat step 4a, 4b or 4c until stable measurements are
achieved.
Step 6: Repeat steps 1 through 5 above on high speed for LSSD
and VSD ceiling fans that also meet the definition of an LSSD fan.
Note: Ensure that temperature and humidity readings are maintained
within the required tolerances for the duration of the test (all
tested speeds). Forced-air environmental conditioning equipment may
be used and doors and vents may be opened between test sessions to
maintain environmental conditions.
Step 7: If testing a multi-mount ceiling fan, repeat steps 1
through 6 with the ceiling fan in the ceiling fan configuration
(associated with either hugger or standard ceiling fans) not already
tested.
If a multi-head ceiling fan includes more than one category of
ceiling fan head, then test at least one of each unique category. A
fan head with different construction that could affect air movement
or power consumption, such as housing, blade pitch,
[[Page 69572]]
or motor, would constitute a different category of fan head.
Step 8: For multi-head ceiling fans, measure active (real) power
consumption in all phases simultaneously at each speed continuously
for 100 seconds with all fan heads turned on, and record the average
value at each speed in watts (W).
For ceiling fans with an oscillating function, measure active
(real) power consumption in all phases simultaneously at each speed
continuously for 100 seconds with the oscillating function turned
on. Record the average value of the power measurement in watts (W).
For both multi-head ceiling fans and fans with an oscillating
function, repeat power consumption measurement until stable power
measurements are achieved.
3.3.3 Air Velocity Measurements for Ceiling Fans With Airflow
Not Directly Downward:
Using the number of sensors that cover the same diameter as if
the airflow were directly downward, record air velocity at each
speed from the same number of continuous sensors with the largest
air velocity measurements. This continuous set of sensors must be
along the axis that the ceiling fan tilt is directed in (and along
the axis that is 180 degrees from the first axis). For example, a
42-inch fan tilted toward axis A may create the pattern of air
velocity shown in Figure 4 of this appendix. As shown in Table 1 of
this appendix, a 42-inch fan would normally require 7 active sensors
per axis. However, because the fan is not directed downward, all
sensors must record data. In this case, because the set of sensors
corresponding to maximum air velocity are centered 3 sensor
positions away from the sensor 1 along the A axis, substitute the
air velocity at A axis sensor 4 for the average air velocity at
sensor 1. Take the average of the air velocity at A axis sensors 3
and 5 as a substitute for the average air velocity at sensor 2, take
the average of the air velocity at A axis sensors 2 and 6 as a
substitute for the average air velocity at sensor 3, etc. Lastly,
take the average of the air velocities at A axis sensor 10 and C
axis sensor 4 as a substitute for the average air velocity at sensor
7. Stability criteria apply after these substitutions. For example,
air velocity stability at sensor 7 are determined based on the
average of average air velocity at A axis sensor 10 and C axis
sensor 4 in successive measurements. Any air velocity measurements
made along the B-D axis are not included in the calculation of
average air velocity.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP07DE21.010
3.4 Test apparatus for large-diameter ceiling fans, high-speed
belt-driven ceiling fans and large-diameter belt-driven ceiling
fans:
The test apparatus and instructions for testing large-diameter
ceiling fans, HSBD and LDBD ceiling fans must conform to the
requirements specified in sections 3 through 7 of AMCA 230-15
(incorporated by reference, see Sec. 430.3), with the following
modifications:
* * * * *
3.5 Active mode test measurement for large-diameter ceiling
fans, high-speed belt-driven ceiling fans and large-diameter belt-
driven ceiling fans:
(1) Test large-diameter ceiling fans in accordance with AMCA
208-18 (incorporated by reference, see Sec. 430.3), in all phases
simultaneously at:
(a) High speed, and
(b) 40 percent or the nearest speed that is not less than 40
percent speed.
(2) Test high-speed belt-driven ceiling fans and large-diameter
belt-driven ceiling fans in accordance with AMCA 208-18, in all
phases simultaneously at:
(a) High speed, and
(b) 40 percent or the nearest speed that is not less than 40
percent speed, if the fan is capable of multi-speed operation.
(3) When testing at 40 percent speed for large-diameter ceiling
fans that can operate over an infinite number of speeds (e.g.,
ceiling fans with VFDs), ensure the average measured RPM is within
the greater of 1% of the average RPM at high speed or 1 RPM. For
example, if the average measured RPM at high speed is 50 RPM, for
testing at 40% speed, the average measured RPM should be between 19
RPM and 21 RPM. If the average measured RPM falls outside of this
tolerance, adjust the ceiling fan speed and repeat the test.
Calculate the airflow and measure the active (real) power
consumption in all phases simultaneously in accordance with the test
requirements specified in sections 8 and 9, AMCA 230-15, with the
following modifications:
3.5.1 Measure active (real) power consumption in all phases
simultaneously at a point that includes all power-consuming
components of the ceiling fan. If present, any additional
accessories or features sold with the ceiling fan that do not relate
to the ceiling fan's ability to create airflow by rotation of the
fan blades (for example light kit, heater, air ionization,
ultraviolet technology) are to be installed but turned off during
testing. If the accessory/feature cannot be turned off, it shall be
set to the lowest energy-consuming mode during testing.
* * * * *
3.6 Test measurement for standby power consumption.
(1) * * *
(a) The ability to facilitate the activation or deactivation of
other functions (including active mode) by remote switch (including
remote control), internal sensor, or timer.
(b) Continuous functions, including information or status
displays (including clocks), or sensor-based functions.
* * * * *
4. Calculation of Ceiling Fan Efficiency From the Test Results:
4.1 Calculation of effective area for small-diameter ceiling
fans other than high-speed belt-driven ceiling fans:
Calculate the effective area corresponding to each sensor used
in the test method for small-diameter ceiling fans other than high-
speed belt-driven ceiling fans (section 3.3 of this appendix) with
the following equations:
(1) For sensor 1, the sensor located directly underneath the
center of the ceiling fan, the effective width of the circle is 2
inches, and the effective area is:
[[Page 69573]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP07DE21.011
(2) For the sensors between sensor 1 and the last sensor used in
the measurement, the effective area has a width of 4 inches. If a
sensor is a distance d, in inches, from sensor 1, then the effective
area is:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP07DE21.012
(3) For the last sensor, the width of the effective area depends
on the horizontal displacement between the last sensor and the point
on the ceiling fan blades furthest radially from the center of the
fan. The total area included in an airflow calculation is the area
of a circle 8 inches larger in diameter than the ceiling fan blade
span (as specified in section 3 of this appendix).
Therefore, for example, for a 42-inch ceiling fan, the last
sensor is 3 inches beyond the end of the ceiling fan blades. Because
only the area within 4 inches of the end of the ceiling fan blades
is included in the airflow calculation, the effective width of the
circle corresponding to the last sensor would be 3 inches. The
calculation for the effective area corresponding to the last sensor
would then be:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP07DE21.013
For a 46-inch ceiling fan, the effective area of the last sensor
would have a width of 5 inches, and the effective area would be:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP07DE21.014
4.2 Calculation of airflow and efficiency for small-diameter
ceiling fans other than high-speed belt-driven ceiling fans:
Calculate fan airflow using the overall average of both sets of
air velocity measurements at each sensor position from the
successive sets of measurements that meet the stability criteria
from section 3.3 of this appendix. To calculate airflow for HSSD,
LSSD, and VSD ceiling fans, multiply the overall average air
velocity at each sensor position from section 3.3 (for high speed
for HSSD, LSSD, and VSD ceiling fans that also meet the definition
of an LSSD ceiling fan; and repeated for low speed only for LSSD and
VSD ceiling fans that also meet the definition of an LSSD ceiling
fan) by that sensor's effective area (see section 4.1 of this
appendix), and then sum the products to obtain the overall
calculated airflow at the tested speed.
For each speed, using the overall calculated airflow and the
overall average power consumption measurements from the successive
sets of measurements as follows:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP07DE21.015
Where:
CFMi = airflow at speed i,
OHi = operating hours at speed i, as specified in Table 2
of this appendix,
Wi = power consumption at speed i,
OHSb = operating hours in standby mode, as specified in
Table 2 of this appendix, and
WSb = power consumption in standby mode.
Calculate two ceiling fan efficiencies for multi-mount ceiling
fans: One efficiency corresponds to the ceiling fan mounted in the
configuration associated with the definition of a hugger ceiling
fan, and the other efficiency corresponds to the ceiling fan mounted
in the configuration associated with the definition of a standard
ceiling fan.
Table 2 to Appendix U to Subpart B of Part 430: Daily Operating Hours
for Calculating Ceiling Fan Efficiency
------------------------------------------------------------------------
No Standby With standby
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Daily Operating Hours for LSSD and VSD* Ceiling Fans
------------------------------------------------------------------------
High Speed.............................. 3.4 3.4
Low Speed............................... 3.0 3.0
Standby Mode............................ 0.0 17.6
Off Mode................................ 17.6 0.0
Daily Operating Hours for HSSD Ceiling Fans
------------------------------------------------------------------------
High Speed.............................. 12.0 12.0
Standby Mode............................ 0.0 12.0
Off Mode................................ 12.0 0.0
------------------------------------------------------------------------
These values apply only to VSD fans that also meet the definition of an
LSSD fan.
[[Page 69574]]
4.3 Calculation of airflow and efficiency for multi-head ceiling
fans:
Calculate airflow for each fan head using the method described
in section 4.2 of this appendix. To calculate overall airflow at a
given speed for a multi-head ceiling fan, sum the airflow for each
fan head included in the ceiling fan (a single airflow can be
applied to each of the identical fan heads, but at least one of each
unique fan head must be tested). The power consumption is the
measured power consumption with all fan heads on. Using the airflow
as described in this section, and power consumption measurements
from section 3.3 of this appendix, calculate ceiling fan efficiency
for a multi-head ceiling fan as follows:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP07DE21.016
Where:
CFMi = sum of airflows for each head at speed i,
OHi = operating hours at speed i as specified in Table 2
of this appendix,
Wi = power consumption at speed i,
OHSb = operating hours in standby mode as specified in
Table 2 of this appendix, and
WSb = power consumption in standby mode.
5. Calculation of Ceiling Fan Energy Index (CFEI) From the Test
Results for Large Diameter Ceiling Fans, High-Speed Belt-Driven
Ceiling Fans, and Large-Diameter Belt-Driven Ceiling Fans:
Calculate CFEI, which is the FEI for large-diameter ceiling
fans, high-speed belt-driven ceiling fans, and large-diameter belt-
driven ceiling fans, at the speeds specified in section 3.5 of this
appendix according to ANSI/AMCA 208-18, with the following
modifications:
(1) Using an Airflow Constant (Q0) of 26,500 cubic feet per
minute;
(2) Using a Pressure Constant (P0) of 0.0027 inches water gauge;
and
(3) Using a Fan Efficiency Constant ([eta]0) of 42 percent.
[FR Doc. 2021-25416 Filed 12-6-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P
